‘National emergencies demand action beyond political lines’

Prime Minister's wife and Vice President of the Ziaur Rahman Foundation, Zubaida Rahman, called for unified action beyond political affiliations during national disasters, urging everyone to set aside personal differences for the welfare of humanity.
Speaking as the chief guest at a tribute and commemoration event for the 21 July  Milestone Tragedy at the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, she described humanitarian relief work as the highest expression of compassion and solidarity.
"In times of national disaster, we must think of people first. It is our moral responsibility to stand by those who have been affected. This humanitarian cooperation sets a unique example of love, compassion and mutual trust in society," she said.
Praying for those killed in the Bangladesh Air Force training plane crash at Milestone School and College, Zubaida Rahman commended the courage shown by affected teachers, students, and families.
"Today is a day of deep sorrow for the entire country and the nation. The entire nation expresses its condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this sudden and unexpected accident," she added, praising the selfless sacrifices made to save others during the emergency.
Zubaida Rahman expressed gratitude to various rescue and healthcare groups, including the Fire Service, Doctors Association of Bangladesh, Ziaur Rahman Foundation, and hospital personnel. She also acknowledged international support from the UK, China, India, and Singapore.
Speaking as a special guest, Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Sakhawat Hossain Bakul called the Milestone School accident one of the darkest chapters in national history. 
He paid tribute to teacher Maherin Chowdhury, who lost her life rescuing burnt children, and highlighted the contribution of both local and international medical teams, mentioning a recent visit by a delegation from Singapore General Hospital.
"The chief guest of today's programme, Vice President of the Ziaur Rahman Foundation Zubaida Rahman, is present here. She will definitely convey your message to the Honorable Prime Minister. I, as the Health Minister, will also participate in the meeting with the Prime Minister and present the issues of rehabilitation, treatment and other demands to her," Bakul stated.
Chaired by National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery Director Prof Mohammad Nasir Uddin, the memorial included prayers for the victims and silent tributes. 
State Minister for Health and Family Welfare MA Muhith, Health Secretary Kamruzzaman Chowdhury, Prof Farhad Halim Doner, Chinese Ambassador to Dhaka Yao Wen, the Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, and DAB President Harunur Rashid attended the event alongside foreign diplomats, medical staff, and affected families.