DHAKA: The National Board of Revenue (NBR) Chairman Mohammad Nazibur Rahman urged the customs officials to say ‘No’ to corruption and harassment in providing services for revenue collection.

He came up with the plea as chief guest at the inaugural program of the celebration of ‘International Customs Day’ in the city on Monday.

Nazibur Rahman inaugurated the program on NBR Bhaban premises at 8:50am on the day by releasing pigeons and balloons.

Moreover, a colorful rally was brought out to celebrate the day.

The officers and employees of NBR long with a band group of fire service took part in the rally carrying the banners and festoons on spirit of the day.

They marched from the NBR premises to the National Press Club and attended in an oath taking program at 9:30am.

At the program, the customs officials promised not to harass businessmen or involve in corruption in their service.

International Customs Day, well known as the ICD, is celebrated every year on January 26 by the custom organizations.

The day is celebrated in all 179 member countries of World Customs Organization, WCO.

Nazibur also asked every customs officials to perform their duties with honesty and discipline.

The NBR chairman mentioned the hope of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina who said that customs sector can play the vital role to make the dreams true.

Nazibur also advised the officials to work with talent and wisdom.

The International Customs Day is being celebrated centrally in Dhaka and at nine other customs houses and customs  comissionarates across the country.

Remarking the day, the PM formally released the Tk 10 postage stamp, Tk 10 first day envelop and Tk 5 data card in the conference room of the Cabinet Division at Secretariat this morning.

A seminar followed by an award giving ceremony was held at Bangabandhu International Conference Center in city at 11:30am on the day.

World Customs Organization, WCO awards were given to 20 people among stakeholders, businessmen and customs officials.

BDST: 1500 HRS, JAN 26, 2015