Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury inaugurated a 15-day tree fair at the historic Laldighi Maidan. Photo: BSS

CHATTOGRAM, Aug 11, 2026 (BSS) - Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury inaugurated a 15-day tree fair at the historic Laldighi Maidan here this afternoon.

Chattogram North Forest Department organised the fair with support from the district administration.

Deputy Commissioner Zahidul Islam Miah presided over the function. 

Addressing the function as the chief guest, Amir Khasru said the government has placed a high priority on environmental development alongside economic growth. To this end, the country aims to plant 25 crore trees over the next five years. 

"It is essential to protect trees and biodiversity to sustain environmental balance for healthy living. This matter should be taken seriously by everyone, and individuals should engage in tree planting and care. If the government's objectives are achieved and citizens also plant trees out of necessity, Bangladesh will emerge as one of the greenest nations globally," said the minister.

Speaking as special guest, State Minister for Land and Hill Tracts Affairs Barrister Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin 

Mir Helal said to achieve the goal of planting 25 crore trees in the next five years and to enhance the country's greenery, all stakeholders must act with integrity and dedication. 

Lawmaker Abu Sufian, among others, addressed the programme.

Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury and other guests handed over the dividend checks to the beneficiaries of social forestry. Later, the guests visited various stalls of the fair and also bought some saplings of their choice from there.