The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

Chief Adviser Dr Fakhruddin Ahmed yesterday urged the country's affluent people and social welfare organisations to come forward in aid of the disadvantaged section of the society.

He assured the Rotarians of providing with necessary cooperation on behalf of the government in the expansion of their social welfare initiatives.

Dr Fakhruddin made this call while addressing the closing ceremony of the Rotary District Conference-2008 at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre.

Rotary District Governor Rafiq Ahmed Siddique gave the welcome speech. Rotary International President's personal representative Manjit Sawhney also spoke on the ocassion while Rotarian Iftekharul Alam gave vote of thanks.

The Rotarian leaders presented a crest to the Chief Adviser.

Referring to two consecutive floods and catastrophic cyclone Sidr in the country last year, Dr Fakhruddin lauded the role of the Rotary International in making donation to the the CA's relief and welfare fund.

He also appreciated the role of the Rotarians in providing relief materials to the Sidr victims and building cyclone shelters in places selected by the government.

Referring to the first cyclone shelters built by the Rotarians in the early 1970s, Dr Fakhruddin said the cataract operation campaigns of the Rotarians also inspired so many people to be involved in philanthropic activities.

Pointing to significant progress made by the caretaker government in various fields, the Chief Adviser said despite the natural calamities, the government with the help of all has started rehabilitation works in the cyclone affected areas.