The two-day Global Business Conference 2023 commenced with a spotlight on the pivotal role of expatriates in propelling Bangladesh towards progress. At the grand opening, a commitment was made to promptly issue the Non-Resident Bangladeshi (NRB) card to eligible expatriates, as announced by NRB World President
Shahiduzzaman. He underscored the organization’s mission to forge connections between the new generation
and their ethnic and cultural roots.
Directed by Neel Hurejahan, the program set the stage for meaningful discussions and collaborations throughout the conference, emphasizing the importance of fostering a global community. In her inaugural address, Roquia Haider, a renowned journalist from Voice of America and advisor at NRB World, conveyed the purpose of the gathering. She highlighted the evolving role of the Bangladeshi diaspora, transitioning from a pursuit of livelihood to emerging leaders in education and business. Recognizing the annual influx of new-generation students, she also emphasized the significance of the platform as a crucial stepping stone for their aspirations and future endeavors. President Saiduzzaman announced the impending launch of the NRB mobile app, urging all expatriates to embrace and support the new generation. Additionally, Senator Sheikh Rahman reflected on the significance of the current month as a time of victory, expressing gratitude for the existence of Bangladesh, which allowed him to serve as a senator in the USA today. Rahman underscored the importance of imparting the Bengali language to the new generation, emphasizing the inclusive nature of this endeavor and encouraging unity within the diaspora. UK Parliamentarian Foysol Chowdhury urged the audience to dream big, acknowledging that such aspirations would eventually come to fruition. He highlighted the divisive impact of politics in their home country on the diaspora abroad and suggested active involvement in the politics of the host country as a means to contribute positively.
Aziz Ahmed, leader of Kodust Trust, emphasized the collective responsibility shared by everyone present, affirming that progress for each individual is intertwined with the advancement of the organization. Mohammad Ayub Ali, Senior Vice President and Secretary General of NRB World, addressed the audience, urging the government to facilitate the seamless transfer of funds through legal channels by removing existing obstacles.
Dr. Ismail Bellhouse, the special representative of the Dubai government, highlighted Dubai as the global
investment capital, underscoring its significance in the world of investment and finance. He emphasized the
government’s active support for business ventures in Dubai, providing an opportunity for anyone to initiate a
business at a low cost in the region. Prominent figures, including Hemi Hossain, Zahir Uddin, Bashir Ahmed,
Rehaz Reza, Engineer Moazzem Hossain, Ashiq Kumar Sarkar, BM Jamal Hossain, and Embassy Md. Abu Zafar,
stressed the critical role of skill development in addressing the cash imbalance. They asserted that the active
participation of NRBs could significantly contribute to reducing this imbalance. Hasanur Rahman, the Bangladesh head of Shadhin Lab, officially launched the NRB World website during the event. Distinguished guests had the honor of unveiling the cover of Business America Magazine 2023, adding a significant moment to the proceedings. The event in Dubai marked a convergence of influential voices, fostering discussions that hold promise for the future trajectory of Bangladesh’s global presence.