Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today spoke at an Eid reunion and Guneejon Sammanona-2026 programme. Photo : PID

DHAKA, June 5, 2026 (BSS) - Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today said the natural gas reserves in Bhola could serve as a facilitator for establishing planned industries and factories across the southern region of the country.

"One of the primary preconditions for any major investment is energy infrastructure and security. Since energy resources are available in the southern region, a significant opportunity has emerged for its economic transformation," he said.

The minister made the remarks while addressing an Eid reunion and Guneejon Sammanona-2026 programme organized by the Barishal District Association.

The event was held at a hotel here at 9 pm today. 

Association's president Dr. Enayet Karim chaired the event. BNP National Standing Committee Member Selima Rahman and Adviser to the BNP Chairperson and former lawmaker Advocate Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal attended the event as special guests.

Highlighting various aspects of the economic and strategic development potential of the southern region, the information minister said, "We can seriously consider establishing new industries and factories in the southern region centring on Bhola's gas resources."

"Before investing in any area, investors primarily seek two things-political stability and energy security. Since this energy resource exists in southern Bangladesh, it must be utilized in a planned manner for the country's economy and employment generation," he added.

The minister said such important and strategic development issues should not remain solely on the agenda of political parties or those in government. 

"The extension of this road is essential. Otherwise, the huge flow of vehicles to the southern region will increase the risk of road accidents," he added, stressing the need for extending roadways.

He also stressed the need to capitalize on Kuakata's tourism potential through policy support.

"Through this, it will be possible to earn a substantial amount of foreign currency within the next four to five years, helping offset remittance shortfalls created by global crises," he added.

Secretary of the Financial Institutions Division Nazma Mobarek, the association's chief patron A.K.M. Azizur Rahman Khan, adviser A.K.M. Mizanur Rahman, Managing Director of Novo Cargo Service Syed Mustafizur Rahman, Chairman of the Barishal Education Board Professor Md. Yunus Ali Siddiqui, and General Secretary of the Dhaka Reporters Unity Mainul Hasan Sohel also spoke at the event, among others.

At the function, seven eminent individuals were honoured with Guneejan Sammanona medals, including posthumous awards, in recognition of their contributions to social welfare, education, industry and banking sectors in the southern region.