Photo : BSS

RAJSHAHI, July 11, 2026 (BSS) - Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu today said Pubali Bank PLC will continue to play a vital role in advancing Rajshahi's economic prosperity by promoting smart and cashless banking services.

Speaking as the chief guest at the "Cashless Rajshahi" programme organised by Pubali Bank PLC at a hotel in the city's C&B intersection, he said the bank, which began its journey in Rajshahi in the late 1950s, has earned the trust of the region's people and played a historic role in Bangladesh's independence and post-war economic reconstruction.

Minu said the people of Rajshahi, known for their educational advancement, would quickly embrace digital banking, helping strengthen the region's economy.

He said Rajshahi would be developed into a major economic hub under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

Highlighting the bank's digital initiative, the minister said Pubali Bank has introduced the Bangla QR payment system to encourage cashless transactions on the model of advanced economies such as Singapore and European countries.

He said the technology would enable traders to conduct fast, secure and hassle-free transactions without relying on paper currency.

Outlining the government's development plans for Rajshahi, Minu said initiatives are underway to extend the runway of Rajshahi Airport to facilitate the direct export of agricultural products, including vegetables and fruits, to destinations such as Dubai and Singapore.

He also said plans are in place to establish a BSCIC Silk Industrial City and an Export Processing Zone (EPZ) to generate employment and boost industrial development in the region.

The minister urged officials of the banking sector to work with honesty and efficiency to support the country's economic recovery.

Earlier, he inaugurated 14 electronic booths of Pubali Bank PLC in Rajshahi and later distributed Bangla QR codes among representatives of various institutions. Pubali Bank PLC Director Azizur Rahman attended the programme as the guest of honour.

The event was chaired by the bank's Deputy General Manager and Rajshahi Regional Head Sajedur Rahman.

Among others, Bangladesh Bank Executive Director Amjad Hossain Khan, Pubali Bank Managing Director and Chief Executive Mohammad Ali, Bangladesh Bank Directors Md. Bayezid Sarkar, Md. Nazim Uddin and Shah Nawaz Khan, business leaders and media representatives were present.