Business people have role to play in tackling 2nd Covid wave: FM

As many countries across the globe including Bangladesh are bracing for the second wave of coronavirus, the world needs collective actions to tackle this menace, said Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen.

And in this fight, the business people have a role to play as they can enhance their constructive and result-oriented engagements with the government while responding to Covid-19 pandemic's local outbreak, he added.  

The minister made the remarks while addressing a virtual discussion on Saturday marking the Eid-e-Miladunnabi, the day of birth and demise of Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (SM), which passed recently, reads a press release.  

President of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) Sheikh Fazle Fahim, among others, spoke at the scholarly conclave.

The Covid-19 pandemic has led to an extraordinary situation now, said the foreign minister, adding that there is a need for compassion, kindness and solidarity to overcome this situation.

"We must illuminate the sense of belongingness, empathy and kind-heartedness, like our Prophet (PBUH) did," added the minister.

The government of Bangladesh, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has responded swiftly and vigorously to the pandemic, he said.

Sustainable development is not a new concept to Islam, said Dr Momen, adding: "The Holy Quran and the Hadith provide the framework for the spiritual and physical welfare of humanity."

There are over 500 verses in the Quran giving guidance on matters relating to the environment and how to deal with it, the minister pointed out.