Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today said the present government is gradually driving the country towards a technology-driven modern Bangladesh.

"Under the current government, the country will enter the highest level of technology-based digital transactions. The modernization of the country's overall transaction system and its transition to a cashless economy is an important part of this transformation," he said.

The minister made the remarks while speaking to journalists at an event held at the Batighar and Prothoma Prokashoni bookshops at Aziz Super Market in Shahbagh in the capital this afternoon.

Photo : BSS

The programme, organized with the support of Bangladesh Bank, aimed at encouraging the use of the "Bangla QR" code to expand the digital transaction system.

The information minister said many countries around the world are far ahead of Bangladesh in technology-based transactions. “However, due to policy delays or failures of previous governments, neither the state nor the people could be fully connected to this modern technology,” he said.

"This government has broken this inaction and journey towards cashless transactions has begun today through the 'Bangla QR' code," he added. 

Recalling memories, he said, “I had always purchased books from here using cash. But today, for the first time in my life as a customer, I bought books using cashless technology by scanning the 'Bangla QR' code.” 

“People do not realize how easy and convenient transactions can be, until they use the technology. We should maximize the use of technology in every sector," he added urging people to use the Bangla QR while purchasing. 
    
He also urged all banks involved in the initiative, including Dutch-Bangla Bank's "Rocket" mobile banking service, as well as the country's people, to avoid cash transactions and adopt technology-based payments through the "Bangla QR" code.

Senior officials of Bangladesh Bank and Dutch-Bangla Bank were present at the programme.