Future Initiatives: WB signals robust support for Bangladesh

World Bank President Ajay Banga has praised the sector-wise election manifesto of the ruling BNP and pledged full support for Bangladesh.

He made the remarks during a meeting with Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury in Washington DC on the sidelines of the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings, according to a message received last night. Prime Minister’s Adviser Rehan Asad was also present.

Banga congratulated the BNP on its landmark victory in the 2026 parliamentary elections and the formation of the government.

During the discussion, the finance minister sought increased World Bank support to help transform Bangladesh’s economy, stressing the importance of timely fund disbursement and scaling up commitments.

In response, Banga reaffirmed the World Bank’s support, highlighting the need to diversify financing sources by expanding the use of capital market instruments such as bonds alongside concessional lending.

He also underscored the importance of creating jobs for the younger generation through the digital economy, improving nationwide digital connectivity, and advancing Digital Public Infrastructure.

Rehan Asad outlined the government’s plans to build strong nationwide digital infrastructure both wireless and wired and discussed reforms in the ICT and telecom sectors.

He also highlighted a newly launched DPI initiative aimed at providing every citizen with a single digital ID and one digital bank account. The World Bank expressed strong interest in partnering on this transformation.

The finance minister further pointed to the potential of the creative industry as a new engine for growth and employment, seeking the Bank’s support in this sector.

Banga, meanwhile, stressed the urgency of a comprehensive reform agenda, particularly in resolving non-performing loans, strengthening the financial sector, and reforming revenue administration.

Chowdhury reiterated the government’s commitment to implementing these reforms, including financial sector improvements and modernization of tax administration, and urged the World Bank to prioritise digital connectivity and the digital economy to boost youth employment.

Both sides agreed to deepen collaboration going forward, linking financial sector reforms with innovation and digital infrastructure development.