Veteran economist and Distinguished Fellow of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) Debapriya Bhattacharya on Friday said former prime minister Khaleda Zia’s decision not to export gas marked a major milestone in Bangladesh’s energy sector, bringing about a positive structural shift.

Speaking at a “Citizens’ Condolence Meeting” organised in memory of Khaleda Zia at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, Debapriya said that in 2003 foreign oil companies began claiming Bangladesh was “floating on oil and gas” and advised the country to export its resources.

“Despite such pressure, Khaleda Zia took the decision not to export gas. That decision ultimately shaped the future of Bangladesh’s energy sector,” he said.

Recalling Khaleda Zia’s role in energy policymaking, Debapriya said that after the BNP returned to power for a second term, discussions began on a long-term strategy for natural gas, leading to the formation of a national committee.

“At that time, then opposition leader Sheikh Hasina suggested preserving gas for 50 years and exporting the rest. But Khaleda Zia took a prudent and far-sighted decision,” he said.

Debapriya also shared his personal experience of advising Khaleda Zia on the issue. “She asked me whether Bangladesh really had a 50-year gas reserve. I told her it was not just about reserves, but also about exploration and extraction capacity. She then asked how much foreign currency the country would earn if gas were exported. I told her the amount would not be very significant. After discussions within her party, she decided against gas export.”

According to Debapriya, Khaleda Zia paid close attention to technical experts, listened patiently and then took decisions after detailed discussions in party forums.

“She had remarkable patience, tolerance and the ability to make calm, well-judged decisions. There is much that future Bangladesh can learn from these qualities.”

Eminent members of civil society also spoke at the event. BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman and his family members listened attentively to the speeches. Senior BNP leaders, including members of the party’s Standing Committee, were also present at the programme.