Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has emphasized that establishing a knowledge- and merit-based state and society is essential for Bangladesh to thrive with dignity in a competitive global environment. He made the remarks on Thursday, February 26, 2026, while inaugurating the Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2026 at the Bangla Academy premises in Dhaka under the theme “Multidimensional Bangladesh.” He also reiterated Bangladesh’s continued efforts to have Bangla recognized as an official language of the United Nations.

Rahman suggested transforming the annual Amar Ekushey Book Fair into an international event to promote global literary exchange and multilingual learning. He called for organizing book fairs across all divisions, districts, and upazilas throughout the year, with support from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs. Highlighting the negative impact of internet addiction on reading habits, he urged the youth to rediscover the joy of reading printed books.

The event was attended by cultural leaders and government officials, including the cultural affairs minister, who described books as a source of enlightenment and identity. The Bangla Academy president encouraged citizens to gift books during Eid and work collectively toward a knowledge-based, prosperous Bangladesh.