Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has proposed the adoption of a common currency, akin to the euro used by the European Union, among Muslim countries to facilitate trade and commerce.

During a meeting with a delegation of D-8 trade ministers, led by Turkish Deputy Minister of Trade Mustafa Tizcu, at her official residence Ganabhaban, the Prime Minister emphasized the potential benefits of introducing a common currency to enhance economic cooperation among member nations.

Sheikh Hasina highlighted the formation of the D-8, comprising Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey, with the aim of bolstering trade and fostering friendship among Muslim-majority countries to uplift the socioeconomic conditions of their people.

Expressing her commitment to improving the fate and socioeconomic development of the common people, Sheikh Hasina emphasized the importance of enhancing trade among D-8 member nations to reduce dependence on external sources.

Regarding the Rohingya crisis, the Prime Minister voiced concern over the loss of generations and the involvement of some Rohingya in criminal activities. She reiterated the need for their dignified repatriation to their homeland, emphasizing the challenges posed by internal conflicts in Myanmar.

The meeting also focused on implementing a preferential trade agreement (PTA) among D-8 member countries and expanding its effectiveness. A Dhaka Declaration was adopted during the meeting, with an agreement to increase bilateral and multilateral trade among member nations.

The delegation expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for her role as one of the initiators of the D-8 grouping and praised her continued support for forcibly displaced Rohingya refugees. Additionally, they commended her stance in support of the Palestinian territory amidst Israeli attacks on Gaza.

State Minister for Commerce Ahasanul Islam Titu, Ambassador-at-large M Ziauddin, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister M Tofazzel Hossain Miah, and Commerce Secretary Tapan Kanti Ghosh were present during the meeting.