Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said that the whole world is facing a new crisis like militancy and called upon the world leaders to be united to fight the challenge.

“Terrorism and militancy are transnational problems. We all will have to face the challenge collectively,” Hasina said.

She was addressing the inaugural function of the 136th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) assembly at the south plaza of the parliament complex in Dhaka this evening.

The menace of militancy and terrorism is taking people’s lives and destroying peace, Hasina said adding that it is now not a problem for a certain country.

Citing facts of the country’s independence, Hasina said she has faced very tough time, establishing people’s democratic rights and ensuring its continuation.

Claiming that democracy is not only a process but also a way to improve people’s socio-economic condition, Hasina said, “Our democratic path was not a bed of roses.”

The premier later formally inaugurated the five-day long assembly.

A total of 1,348 delegates including 650 parliament members, 53 speakers, deputy speakers and 209 women parliamentarians of 131 countries have been attending the mega event.