Quality leadership a must for development

They said development depends on how political leadership both in the government and the opposition deals with governance and security.

The two-day regional seminar on 'Development and Security' was organised by Bangladesh Political Science Association (BPSA) in collaboration with International Political Science Association and American Institute of Bangladesh Studies (AIBS) at the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies auditorium in the city.

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Speaking at the inaugural session as chief guest, US Ambassador to Bangladesh Harry K Thomas said true security hinges on economic development.

He said trade among the countries makes bond of mutual relationships and dependencies that become the basis of the security.

Harry said Bangladesh has wealth and resources, it needs only to find ways to utilise those for the benefit of the people.

He also laid emphasis on establishing the rule of law and a fair judicial system. BPSA President Prof Ataur Rahman said quality and dynamism in leadership could give a country solid foundation for development.

He said political leadership must increase its governance ability as good governance still remains a key issue in the country.

"Developing countries cannot just copy the developed nations as development has become a complex process, " said Prof Rahman.

AIBS President Dr Syedur Rahman said national security policy cannot be based on military capacity, rather it should be based on economic development.

He said safety of individual and absence of fear in the society is needed for development.

Dr Syedur also pointed out that political leadership has to invent ideas which will serve the country not for a few years but for a decade and even for a century.

Dr Zillur Rahman Khan, professor emeritus of Wisconsin University, USA said without quality leadership, reforms hardly bring any positive changes in the society.

Political scientists from the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia and India are taking part in the two-day seminar.