The New Nation - Internet Edition

BUSINESS REPORT

The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) Ltd in Bangladesh has undertaken a number of initiatives to celebrate 400 years of Dhaka as capital city.

The bank has commissioned a map, which will showcase the places of historical importance in Dhaka's history. The map is currently available at selected stores including Etcetera, Word and Page and will be available at other venues very soon.

Addressing a press conference at a city hotel yesterday about the launching of the map, HSBC Bangladesh Chief Executive Officer Steve Banner said that the map would highlight the great architectural achievements that were part of Dhaka's history as a capital and hoped that people would preserve it as a souvenir for the future generation.

"HSBC believes in giving something back to the community in which it operates and we have proud to offer our support a verity of good causes including underprivileged children's education, helping the needy and disabled and promoting Bengali culture for more than 10 years. Keeping this philosophy in mind we will be donating all funds raised through the sale of map to local charities," Banner added.

Mustafizur Rahman, Head of the Marketing and Communications, and M Sami Hafiz, Corporate Sustainability and Communications Manager, among others, were present at the press briefing.

In addition, HSBC is sponsoring a drama titled 'Bahanno Bazar Teppanno Goli' on 400 years of Dhaka, which will be shown at the National Theatre at Segun Baghicha in the city on July 17. The show will remain open to the public from July 20 and entire procedures from the show will be donated to charity.

The bank has also sponsored the works of three of the country's renowned photographers--Babu Ahmed, Munem Wasif and Taimur. Their photographs capturing the essence of the Old Dhaka will be showcased at Drik Gallery from July 13.