Dhaka, March 14 -- Information minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has called for protecting religious values from what he described as "religion traders" while upholding democratic ideals and a Bangladeshi national identity.

He made the remarks at a discussion meeting at the National Press Club in Dhaka on Saturday afternoon.

The event was organised to mark the 47th death anniversary of politician Mashiur Rahman Jadu Mia.

Swapan said Bangladesh must remain committed to democratic values while strengthening its national identity.

"If we can uphold democratic values and our Bangladeshi identity under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, and protect religious values from the hands of 'religion traders', then I see no force capable of defeating us,...