DHAKA: Bangladesh Bank (BB) Governor Dr. Atiur Rahman received the ‘Central Banker of the Year 2015’ award from the Asia-Pacific region for stimulating growth and stabilizing economy.

Brian Caplen, editor pg The Banker – a UK-based The Financial Times-owned publication, handed over the award to the governor at a ceremony at the House of Lords in London on Friday.

Lord Mohamed Sheikh presided over the function and delivered the introductory speech.

Lord Sheikh praised the BB governor and his works, saying “I’m sure that Dr. Atiur Rahman is worthy recipient of this award. The award is a clear recognition of his remarkable contributions towards the poorer segments of the population.”

“Previously, the farmers were not able to reach the financial markets but Dr. Rahman, through his work, has managed to stimulate them for a financially inclusive society,” he added.

Addressing the function, Brian Caplen, editor of The Banker, said: ‘What impressed the editors of The Banker with Dr. Rahman’s performance was not only that he has done the basic things we expect from a central bank governor which is to keep an eye on inflation and provide stable economic conditions on a good financial system- not only those things.”

“But he has actually done some rather unique and interesting things for central bank in terms of contributing something to the social good in Bangladesh,” he added.

A panel discussion was held after the award giving ceremony followed by question and answer session, conducted by Stefania Palma, the Asia Editor of The Banker. The program ended with comments from the guests of the functions.

Bangladesh High Commissioner to the United Kingdom M Abdul Hannan said: ‘Dr. Atiur Rahman made a critical balance between the monetary policy and fiscal policy. He has effectively internalized the vision of social inclusiveness.’

Bangladeshi-origin British lawmaker Rushanara Ali said; ‘Atiur Rahman’s work has quite effectively demonstrated how central banks can play a key role in promoting socially responsible financing.’

She also said “Bangladesh can be a role model of inclusive socio-economic development. Bangladesh is obviously a success story and this recognition indicates that the country is doing really well.’

Leading bankers, economists, politicians and media personalities attended the award presenting ceremony.

BDST: 1436 HRS, FEB 07, 2015