Khalid Tawalbeh
Doha
A day of cultural celebration and visionary discourse unfolded as the Bangladesh Embassy in Qatar and the Omniverse Chamber of Commerce hosted an event highlighting the South Asian country’s ambitious Vision 2041.
The evening brought together ambassadors, dignitaries, and members of the Bangladeshi community, with special guest La Toya Jackson adding star power to the occasion. The event underscored Bangladesh’s plans to achieve high-income status by 2041 while celebrating the country’s cultural heritage and growing international stature.
Ambassador Mohammad Nazrul Islam, Bangladesh’s envoy to Qatar, laid out the vision for a future driven by innovation and resilience.
Vision 2041: A bold roadmap for growth
Ambassador Islam detailed the blueprint for Vision 2041, a plan aimed at propelling Bangladesh to a per capita income of $12,500 by 2041. The strategy includes maintaining a 9% GDP growth rate, achieving $330 billion in export earnings, and raising the investment-to-GDP ratio to 47%.
“Bangladesh is not just pursuing economic growth; it is building a foundation for global leadership in technology, industry, and human development,” Islam said. Highlighting milestones like the increase in exports from $52 billion in 2021-22 to $65 billion in 2022-23, the ambassador underscored the nation’s progress in diversifying its economy beyond the garment and textile sectors.
Pillars of transformation
The vision includes over $1 trillion in infrastructure investments targeting transport, energy, and digital connectivity. Key goals include providing universal health care to 75% of the population and raising life expectancy to 80 years.
“Bangladesh is prioritizing education, sustainable infrastructure, and healthcare to ensure its people are at the core of its transformation,” Islam said.
“Bangladesh’s focus on economic progress and cultural preservation is truly inspiring,” Jackson said during her address. Her presence underscored the growing global recognition of Bangladesh’s development efforts.
Strengthening bilateralties
The event highlighted the partnership between Qatar and Bangladesh, with Islam applauding Qatar’s support for the Bangladeshi diaspora and the contributions of Bangladeshi workers to Qatar’s economy. “Our bond with Qatar is built on shared goals and mutual respect, and the Bangladeshi community here plays a crucial role in strengthening this relationship,” he said.
Discussions facilitated by the Omniverse Chamber of Commerce focused on expanding trade and investment opportunities between the two nations.
Looking ahead
As the event concluded, Ambassador Islam reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to achieving its Vision 2041 goals.
“Bangladesh is a story of resilience and innovation. We are setting a global example for development,” he said.
The event left attendees inspired, with cultural performances and Jackson’s presence underscoring the message that Bangladesh is firmly on the path to realizing its bold vision.
