Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to building a state where every citizen can live in peace and security, regardless of their political affiliation, religion, or caste.

“The main responsibility and commitment of our government is to build a state and society where every citizen of the country can freely practice and enjoy their religious rituals and rights,” the Prime Minister said while exchanging greetings with leaders of the Buddhist community on the occasion of Buddha Purnima at the Bangladesh Secretariat.

Emphasizing that religious belief is a personal matter while security is a collective right, the Prime Minister asserted that the current administration refuses to use religion as a political tool.

“We do not want to use religion for political interests, nor have we done so in the past," said Tarique Rahman, who also serves as the Chairman of the ruling BNP.

"Regardless of religion or caste, Bangalee and non-Bangalee alike will enjoy equal rights in all spheres—this is the policy of the current government.”

He reminded the audience that the nation’s independence was achieved through the collective sacrifice of Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians.

“Therefore, this independent Bangladesh belongs to you, to me, to all of us,” he added, noting that freedom fighters aspired to create a safe country for both believers and non-believers.

The Prime Minister highlighted "Bangladeshi nationalism" as the guiding political philosophy of his government, describing it as the only framework capable of ensuring harmonious coexistence.

“Only the philosophy of Bangladeshi nationalism can ensure harmonious coexistence of all castes, religious communities and ethnic groups in the country," he stated. "None of you should ever consider yourselves as a minority.”

Extending his felicitations to Buddhists worldwide, the Prime Minister spoke on the universal message of welfare found in religious teachings.

He specifically cited the Panchashila principles of Gautama Buddha, which include refraining from killing, stealing, adultery, falsehood, and intoxicants.

“Alongside state laws, if every citizen properly follows their respective religious teachings, we all can build a humane state and society together,” he remarked, noting that love, non-violence, and compassion remain the core pillars of Buddhism.

The greeting exchange was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain (Kaikobad), Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Minister Dipen Dewan, and State Minister Mir Mohammed Helal Uddin.

Also present were the Prime Minister’s Special Assistant on Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, and Ethnic Affairs Bijon Kanti Sarkar, Bandarban lawmaker Saching Prue, BNP-nominated candidate for the reserved women's seat Madhabi Marma, and Dr. Sukomal Barua.

As a token of respect, the Buddhist delegation presented the Prime Minister with a commemorative crest and a replica of a Buddha statue.