Dr. Wahiduddin Mahmud, Adviser on Planning, has emphasized the importance of reliable statistics, calling them a critical national investment. Speaking at the inauguration of the 19th National Statistics Conference organized by the Bangladesh Statistical Association (BSA), he said: “Just like infrastructure, a strong statistical system is an investment for the country. The government is working to make this investment.” Dr. Hossain Zillur Rahman added that in today’s advanced economic era, accurate and reliable statistics should be considered a “factor of production.” Speakers stressed the need to mainstream diverse datasets and ensure coordination between government and statistical bodies. They also called for a platform where statisticians, data scientists, and professionals can collaborate effectively.