Bangladesh cannot achieve its full potential for development without integrating the hill tracts into its progress narrative, stated Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday (2 December), in a message marking "Hill Tracts Peace Accord Day".
Highlighting the importance of the region, Prof Yunus remarked, "The hill tracts are home to communities residing in one-tenth of the country's total land area. Therefore, it is impossible to sideline the hill tracts in the nation’s developmental aspirations."
Emphasising the region’s potential, he stated that initiatives have been undertaken to involve local communities in preserving the natural beauty of the hill districts and promoting tourism. These multifaceted reforms are expected to alleviate unemployment, accelerate economic development, enhance living standards, and mitigate social inequality.
Dr Yunus also called for collective efforts to ensure sustained peace, harmony, development, and progress for all residents of the hill tracts.
"I am delighted to see that 'Hill Tracts Peace Accord Day-2024' is being celebrated this year as well," he said, extending heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all communities of the hill tracts on this occasion.
Reflecting on the historic significance of the day, he stated, "On this day in 1997, the Government of Bangladesh and the Parbatya Chattagram Jana Samhati Samiti signed an agreement. It was a political accord widely recognised as a peace treaty."
Yunus, representing the interim government formed through a mass uprising involving students, workers, and citizens, reaffirmed their commitment to building a united and discrimination-free new Bangladesh while upholding communal harmony.
He concluded by wishing success for all activities surrounding "Hill Tracts Peace Accord Day-2024", underscoring its significance in fostering unity and progress in the nation.
