We are encouraged by the recent diplomatic engagements exploring a potential free trade agreement (FTA) between Bangladesh and Uzbekistan. Bangladesh's economic diplomacy has long remained narrowly tethered to a handful of traditional Western and regional markets.

There was a time when retail therapy lived up to its name. Walking into a store, whether a neighbourhood bookstore or a trendy lifestyle outlet like Shwapno, offered a quiet escape into discovery.

Statutory compliance is insufficient without anonymous ombudsman reporting and transparent independent inquiry panels.