During her address at the Bangladesh Development Forum 2018 in Dhaka, Hasina emphasized the importance of developed countries providing financial and technical assistance to help achieve development goals. She also highlighted the need for global focus on the world trade system to combat climate change and contribute to overall development. Hasina spoke about Bangladesh's progress on socio-economic issues and the country's aim to become a developed and prosperous nation by 2041 through the implementation of Vision 2021 and sustainable development goals. She expressed hope that the forum would help in devising 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 vibrant economy to the world. Currently ranked as the 44th largest economy in terms of GDP and 32nd in purchasing power parity, the prime minister stated that international financial analysts predict Bangladesh will rise to the 28th and 23rd largest economy by 2030 and 2050, respectively. The country is on track to graduate from the LDC category at the United Nations Committee for Development Policy’s upcoming review meeting in March. However, after graduation, Bangladesh will lose certain benefits enjoyed as an LDC, which can be offset by increasing economic mobility and preparedness for work. Hasina stated that Bangladesh has made strategic preparations to address the impact of various challenges. She emphasized that the country's economic activities prioritize regional communication and infrastructure, efficiency and employment, technology and institutional strengthening, economic and social equality, women's empowerment, and equal opportunities for all. Hasina highlighted the importance of private partnerships, including with international partner countries and organizations, in the ongoing progress and mentioned the government's initiative to establish 100 economic zones nationwide. She stressed the significance of rapid growth investment and expressed that a significant increase in productivity could help overcome investment limitations in Bangladesh. Hasina also mentioned the Bangladesh Development Forum, which brings together 700 delegations from the government and development partners to discuss financing issues related to sustainable development goals and help Bangladesh transition from the least developed countries' group. The event at Sonargaon Hotel will last for two days and feature discussions on agriculture, extreme climate conditions, creating a welcoming environment for foreign direct investment, tackling inequality, promoting quality education and ICT. The final day will focus on sessions about addressing violence against women, empowering women, and enhancing urban service delivery.