The nation's first-ever Banking Policy Dialogue was held today in the city's auditorium by the Bangladesh Institute of Bank Management (BIBM), in a ground-breaking move. In order to improve the efficiency of the banking industry and advance international trade services, the dialogue's goals were to create positive dialogue and develop strategic strategies.

Chaired by Fazle Kabir, Chief Advisor and Dialogue Lead, Emeritus Fellow of BIBM, and Former Governor of Bangladesh Bank, the program brought together key stakeholders from the banking industry and regulatory bodies.

Kazi Sayedur Rahman, Chairman of BIBM Executive Committee and Deputy Governor of Bangladesh Bank, graced the dialogue as the special guest, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in shaping banking policies.

Dr. Md. Akhtaruzzaman, Research Advisor and Director General of BIBM, extended a warm welcome to the participants, setting the tone for a productive exchange of ideas.

A significant highlight of the event was the presentation of a background paper titled "Promoting International Trade Services" by Dr. Shah Md. Ahsan Habib, Professor of BIBM. The paper served as a catalyst for in-depth discussions on enhancing trade services and fostering international collaborations.

The dialogue featured two distinct panels: a regulator panel comprising representatives from four key departments and a bank panel representing five prominent banks. Led by the respective Directors of FEPD, FEOD, DFEI, and BFIU, the regulator panel comprised 12 regulatory authorities. The bank panel, led by the CEOs of Janata Bank, Islami Bank, Mutual Trust Bank, Midland Bank, and Citibank NA, included 15 bank executives.

In addition to the panels, an expert group of audiences, including heads of Trade and CAMECO, actively participated, enriching the dialogue with diverse perspectives and insights.

The event concluded with high expectations for a tangible outcome in the form of a 'Policy and Operational Brief.' Mr. Md. Nehal Ahmed, Professor and Director (DSBM) of BIBM, expressed gratitude on behalf of the research team, acknowledging the collaborative efforts and insightful contributions that marked the dialogue's success.