He made these remarks as the chief guest at a discussion meeting organized on the occasion of the Zia Memorial Book Fair-2026 at the Bangla Academy premises in the capital on Wednesday.

Dr. Mueen Khan said students must come forward during times of crisis in the country. Like in various critical moments of the past, students played a significant role in the July mass uprising. Their role against injustice, persecution and autocratic rule was significant.

He commented that students should not fulfill this responsibility by abandoning their studies. According to him, students will come forward when the country and society need them, while also properly carrying out their duties of attending classes, studying and pursuing knowledge.

Describing books and libraries as invaluable assets in students' lives, the minister said, whether through mobile phones, e-books or conventional books, the habit of reading must be maintained. No nation can achieve glory in the world without knowledge and education.

Praising the initiative of the Zia Memorial Book Fair, he said books are not just a means of knowledge practice, but also an important element in preserving a nation's history, culture and civilization. Amid rapid technological changes, it is essential to sustain the culture of reading books.

At the event, the minister highlighted various aspects of the leadership and political role of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed and member of parliament from the reserved women's seat Nilofar Chowdhury Moni were present as special guests.