Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammad Amin ur Rashid said martyred President Ziaur Rahman was the only president to declare independence and take part in the Liberation War with arms. He made the remarks on Tuesday at a discussion meeting at Cumilla Shilpakala Academy, organized by Cumilla Metropolitan BNP to mark the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s founding anniversary.

The minister described Ziaur Rahman’s sense of responsibility toward the people, honesty and simple lifestyle as examples for political workers. He urged BNP leaders and activists to follow Ziaur Rahman’s ideals and work for the welfare of the country and its people. He also said that, in a democratic state, people hold the highest authority and are the true source of state power.

Amin ur Rashid said about 75 percent of the country’s people are directly or indirectly involved in agriculture. He said the government was prepared to take necessary steps for agricultural development and farmers’ welfare, including loan waivers and assistance. He said onion import dependence had declined and that the government planned to consider exports in the future.