ADB VP meets Hasina_ reaffirms stronger support for Bangladesh

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will prioritise its assistance towards Bangladesh for graduation from least developed country (LDC)_ climate change and sustainable development goals. This is to help the country achieve its goal of becoming an upper middle-income country by 2031 and a high-income country by 2041.

ADB Vice-President Shixin Chen made this commitment while meeting with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on May 9 in Dhaka_ reports UNB citing an ADB press release.

He also reaffirmed commitment to supporting rapid recovery from the coronavirus pandemic_ as well as inclusive_ resilient_ and green development in the country.

"In alignment with the government's policies_ ADB's support for Bangladesh will focus on boosting competitiveness_ employment_ and private sector development; promoting green growth and climate resilience; and strengthening human capital and social protection_" ADB vice-president told at the meeting.

In his meeting with the finance minister and ADB Governor A H M Mustafa Kamal_ Chen commended the overall management of the country's economy and swift actions to support strong economic recovery from the pandemic and also emphasised the importance of continued prudent macroeconomic management_ in the backdrop of heightened external risks.

He also met Bangladeshi Railway Minister Nurul Islam Sujon and discussed reforms to improve operational efficiency of the railways_ faster project implementation_ and ensure high project readiness for potential future projects.

Chen met with the country's Planing Minister MA Mannan and assured ADB's continued support for the implementation of Delta Plan 2100_ education_ health_ energy_ railway development_ and blue ocean economy.