Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said that investment, employment generation, and modernization of port operations would be the key drivers in transforming Chattogram into the country’s commercial capital.
Speaking to journalists at Shah Amanat International Airport upon his arrival on Friday in the morning, he said that although there are numerous development plans, the main challenge lies in implementation, particularly in creating employment opportunities.
The biggest issue is employment. Chattogram can only become a true commercial capital through increased investment. We must focus on attracting investment and creating jobs, he said.
He said that the activities of Chattogram Port must be further enhanced to support economic growth. According to him, improving port efficiency, logistics, and service delivery will play a crucial role in boosting trade and drawing both local and foreign investment.
This marks his first visit to his home district after taking charge of the Finance and Planning Ministry. During the visit, he paid tribute at the graves of his parents in North Kattoli under pahartali thana area and later offered Jumma prayers at a mosque in the city.
Amir Khasru met with party leaders and activists at his residence in Mehedibag, where he exchanged greetings and views. Later, he held a meeting with leaders of port service-providing organizations to discuss ways to make port operations more dynamic and efficient.
The meeting focused on accelerating cargo handling, improving logistics management, and enhancing competitiveness in international trade.
Expressing his feelings about the visit, he said he was pleased to be back in Chattogram and emphasized the importance of working collectively in a democratic environment to fulfill people’s expectations.
“We now have an elected government and parliament. We must work together to meet the hopes and aspirations of the people and ensure the development of Chattogram,” he added.
He reiterated that the development of Chattogram is vital not only for the region but also for the national economy. The government aims to turn the city into a modern commercial hub through coordinated planning, infrastructure development, and an investment-friendly environment.