Liberation War Affairs Adviser Faruk-e-Azam (Bir Pratik) spoke at a discussion as the chief guest at Chattogram Shishu Academy auditorium to marking 54th National Cooperative Day today. Photo -BSS

CHATTOGRAM, Nov 1, 2025 (BSS)- Liberation War Affairs Adviser Faruk-e-Azam (Bir Pratik) has said cooperatives are playing significant role in Bangladesh's economic and social development. 

He said sustainable development can be achieved through the collective efforts of cooperative. He underlined the importance of mutual trust and faith and unity among members to make the country’s cooperatives more strong.

Faruk-e-Azam said this while speaking at a discussion as the chief guest at Chattogram Shishu Academy auditorium to marking 54th National Cooperative Day today.

The event was organized by the District Cooperative Department. Prior to the meeting, a rally was brought in the city.

The day is being observed in the country this year with the theme "Cooperatives will build the country through equality and equity."

Faruk-e-Azam said cooperatives in Bangladesh have a long history, starting back in 1909 with the Cooperative Social Bank in Paikgachha, Jessore district. 

He laid importance on involving the youth and women to boost up cooperative movement.  
The July aspirations for change should be reflected in the cooperative movement, he said adding that women's participation in cooperative movement is also crucial for their economic prosperity and self-reliance.

Involvement of farmers and cross section of people with the cooperatives would strengthen the local economy, he noted.
 
Joint Registrar of the National Cooperative Office-Chattogram Mohammad Dulal Mia was in the chair while Divisional Commissioner Dr. Md. Ziauddin and Chittagong District Cooperative Officer Md. Mosleh Uddin spoke, among others, on the occasion.