Own Correspondent: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said, 'Smart Bangladesh Vision' 2041, where 'Smart Citizen', 'Smart Government', 'Smart Economy' and 'Smart Society' - Smart Bangladesh of 2041 will be built on these 4 main foundations.

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The Prime Minister said these things in a speech on the occasion of World Consumer Rights Day on Friday (March 15). On this occasion, he extended his best wishes to all the consumers of Bangladesh and the world.

Sheikh Hasina said that on June 14, 1975, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman established the country's first satellite earth station at Betbunia in Rangamati district, through which the use of information technology began in the country. Bangabandhu laid the foundation of modern science-minded and technology-based Bangladesh. The A-League government built 'Digital Bangladesh' following the path shown by the father of the nation.

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The Prime Minister also said that the A'League government enacted the 'Consumer Rights Protection Act' in 2009 to protect the interests of consumers and prevent acts against consumer rights. As a result of the enactment of this Act, fairness and justice have been established in terms of trade and consumer rights. Consumers are becoming aware of their rights as a result of digital technology-based campaigns and campaigns undertaken by the Department of Public Affairs.

Regarding online shopping, he said that shopping, business and financial transactions are now done digitally or online and new levels of consumer risk are being added to this sector every day. To ensure that online shopping/financial transactions are transparent, that there is no fraud or irregularity and that consumers get their fair rights, all traders and consumers should be aware of their rights as well as responsible.

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The Prime Minister expressed hope that all the officers and employees of the National Directorate of Consumer Rights Protection and related financial institutions, producers, sellers and service providers will play a role in ensuring consumer rights through the best use of information technology including artificial intelligence along with the proper application of the law.

Sun News/AA