Peace is the world's most powerful weapon, says Moyeen Khan

Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan has said that peace, not the atomic bomb, is the most powerful weapon on earth, and that investing in it is the surest path to sustainable development and a better society.

Speaking as chief guest on Friday (October 2) at the "Glamour Excellence Award-2026" ceremony at the National Theatre Hall of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in the capital, he described art and culture as one of the strongest vehicles for peace.

The event was organized by Lal Sabuj Cultural Academy to mark World Peace Day 2026.

Drawing on his academic background, the minister said he studied nuclear physics and had read extensively about atomic weapons. Although the nuclear bomb is widely regarded as one of the most formidable weapons in human history, he said, he believes peace is stronger still.

"Art and culture have no geographical boundaries," he said. Even without understanding a language, music, painting, dance and other art forms can build bridges of communication, harmony and mutual understanding among people, he added, giving art and culture an important role in building world peace.

Recalling Bangladesh's cultural heritage, Dr Moyeen said the late President Ziaur Rahman was deeply devoted to art and culture. He said Zia would invite folk artists performing Bhatiali, Baul and other rural traditions to the Shilpakala Academy grounds and listen to their songs.

Dr Moyeen said that later, while in charge of the then Planning Ministry, he was able to arrange a grant of Tk 8 crore for building the academy's auditorium and other necessary infrastructure, with the support of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. He paid tribute to both leaders.

The minister noted that World Peace Day is observed every year on September 21 at the initiative of the United Nations. Peace, however, should not be confined to a single day, he said.

"We must work for peace every day of the year." Investing in peace, he said, can open the way out of conflict, instability and war in different parts of the world.

He added that by establishing a culture of peace and harmony, Bangladesh can set an example of a beautiful and balanced society. He called on everyone to come forward to practice and promote art and culture.

Praising the prime minister, Dr Moyeen said the head of government has shown that he does not believe in the politics of vengeance and instead wants to build an equitable society in Bangladesh through the participation of all.

Artists, cultural activists and distinguished people from various walks of life attended the event.

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