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Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu on Saturday said Pubali Bank PLC will continue to play a key role in boosting Rajshahi’s economy by expanding smart and cashless banking services.
Speaking as the chief guest at the “Cashless Rajshahi” programme organised by Pubali Bank PLC at a hotel in the city’s C&B intersection, he said the bank, which started operations in Rajshahi in the late 1950s, has earned the trust of local people and made significant contributions to Bangladesh’s independence and post-war economic reconstruction.
Minu said Rajshahi’s educated population would readily adopt digital banking, helping strengthen the region’s economy. He also expressed optimism that Rajshahi would emerge as a major economic hub under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
Highlighting the bank’s digital initiatives, the minister said Pubali Bank has introduced the Bangla QR payment system to promote cashless transactions, following the examples of advanced economies such as Singapore and several European countries. The system will enable traders to make fast, secure and hassle-free payments without using cash, he added.
The minister also outlined several development initiatives for Rajshahi, including the extension of Rajshahi Airport’s runway to facilitate direct exports of agricultural products, such as vegetables and fruits, to destinations including Dubai and Singapore.
He said the government also plans to establish a BSCIC Silk Industrial City and an Export Processing Zone (EPZ) to create jobs and accelerate industrial development in the region.
Urging bankers to work with honesty and professionalism, Minu said an efficient banking sector is essential for supporting the country’s economic recovery.
Earlier, the minister inaugurated 14 electronic banking booths of Pubali Bank PLC in Rajshahi and distributed Bangla QR codes among representatives of various institutions.
Pubali Bank Director Azizur Rahman attended the programme as the guest of honour, while the bank’s Deputy General Manager and Rajshahi Regional Head Sajedur Rahman chaired the event.
Among others present were Bangladesh Bank Executive Director Amjad Hossain Khan, Pubali Bank Managing Director and CEO Mohammad Ali, Bangladesh Bank Directors Md Bayezid Sarkar, Md Nazim Uddin and Shah Nawaz Khan, along with business leaders and media representatives.
