Country’s business community has reiterated the demand for a ‘business-friendly enabling environment’ shunning all damaging political activities including hartals, street agitations and ensuring supporting infrastructure.

“In fact, with the great chance that the Nation now has to change the fate of millions with the help of homegrown development policy agenda and action plans. Bangladesh’s ultimate goal is to free her from the curse of poverty through balanced growth and development. There is high hope that the new government has the ability to deliver with necessary support from different stakeholders including business,” said International Chamber of Commerce-Bangladesh (ICCB) in the Editorial of its latest Quarterly News Bulletin released on January 25.

It said there are no alternatives to uninterrupted supply of gas and electricity; dynamic port facilities; and smooth communication with revamped rail and waterways.

“The new government began its journey with a new vision of change amid huge expectations from the people for easing their economic and social woes. The people of Bangladesh have voiced that they keenly look forward to put an end to corruption and misrule of the past,” the ICCB said.

The National Secretariat of the Paris-based world business organisation said the December 29 election has been a milestone achievement for Bangladesh.

“Probably, for the first time in the country and for that matter in the region such a credible, free and fair election has been held. Casting of vote by some 87 per cent of around 81 million voters, majority of whom are women and younger generation, reflect the commitment of a Nation for democratic governance,” the ICCB editorial said.

Judged by all yardsticks, the Caretaker Government, Election Commission, patriotic Armed Forces and the people deserve to be congratulated for making the election a grand success and a model for future, observed the ICCB bulletin.