Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister and BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday expressed optimism that the longstanding friendship between Bangladesh and Nepal would become stronger and more enduring in the future.

He said greater cooperation and cordial relations between the two countries would open new avenues for the welfare and development of their peoples.

Mirza Fakhrul made the remarks while inaugurating the Free Eye Camp-2026, jointly organized by the Thakurgaon Diabetic Association and Nepalese partners, on Sunday morning.

He said the people of Thakurgaon, like many Bangladeshis, are hardworking and talented, adding that Nepal is geographically close to Bangladesh. Many poor people, particularly those living in border and remote areas, cannot afford proper eye treatment.

“The eye camp will benefit a large number of people, and I hope similar humanitarian healthcare initiatives will be expanded to other parts of the country in the future,” he said.

Organized under the theme “Vision for All, Care for Every Eye,” the camp provided free eye examinations, medical consultations, and diagnostic services.

Among the special guests were Pratik Karki, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Nepal in Bangladesh; Prof. Dr. Chet Raj Pant, Chairman of NNJS; and Padma Narayan Chaudhary, Chairman of Biratnagar Eye Hospital.

The event was presided over by Dr. Abu Md. Khairul Kabir, President of the Thakurgaon Diabetic Association.