During her speech at the Bangladesh Development Forum 2018 in Dhaka, Hasina emphasized the importance of developed countries providing financial and technical assistance to achieve development goals. She also highlighted the need for global focus on the world trade system to combat climate change and promote overall development, poverty alleviation, and job creation. Hasina expressed optimism in achieving Bangladesh's socio-economic targets, including becoming a developed and prosperous country by 2041 through the implementation of Vision 2021 and the UN sustainable development goals 2030. She expressed hope that the forum would contribute to the creation of strategies for a poverty-free and prosperous Bangladesh. Bangladesh has immense potential as a country and is confident in its ability to showcase itself as a dynamic economy to the world. Currently, Bangladesh ranks 44th in terms of GDP and 32nd in purchasing power parity, according to the prime minister. International financial analysts predict that by 2030 and 2050, Bangladesh will become the 28th and 23rd largest economy respectively based on GDP and purchasing capacity. Bangladesh is on track to graduate from the LDC category at the United Nations Committee for Development Policy’s three-year review meeting in March. However, as an LDC, Bangladesh currently enjoys various benefits that will be discontinued post-graduation. This can be offset by increasing economic mobility and workforce readiness. Hasina stated that Bangladesh is prepared to face the impact of global challenges, with a focus on economic activities that prioritize regional communication, infrastructure, efficiency, employment, technology, and institutional strengthening. She emphasized the importance of economic and social equality, women's empowerment, and equal opportunities for all. She highlighted the significance of private partnerships, including international organizations, in the country's ongoing progress, such as the establishment of 100 economic zones. Hasina noted that increased productivity could help overcome investment limitations, and the Bangladesh Development Forum aims to bring government and development partners together to discuss financing for sustainable development goals to help the country graduate from the least developed countries' group. The conference at the Sonargaon Hotel will span two days and cover topics such as agriculture and extreme climate conditions, promoting foreign direct investment, reducing inequality, enhancing education and ICT, addressing violence against women, empowering women, and improving urban services. The final day will focus on sessions related to women's empowerment, violence prevention, and urban service delivery.