BD, UNDP review development agenda

Strengthening development cooperation and advancing inclusive growth were at the centre of discussions on Thursday as United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative Stefan Liller met Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

The meeting took place in the morning at the Prime Minister’s Office at the Bangladesh Secretariat, according to Prime Minister’s Deputy Press Secretary Hasan Shiplu. Shiplu said the two sides discussed a broad range of issues, including sustainable development, education, healthcare and employment, while also exploring ways to deepen ongoing collaboration between Bangladesh and the UN agency.

During the meeting, both sides emphasised the importance of ensuring that development initiatives in Bangladesh remain inclusive, effective and sustainable.

Stefan Liller congratulated Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on forming the government after his party secured an overwhelming majority in the election.

He observed that the national parliament is now vibrant and active and remarked that democracy in Bangladesh has become stronger.

The Prime Minister outlined several measures undertaken by his administration to fulfil the commitments made by his party ahead of the election.

Among the initiatives highlighted were the Family Card and Farmers’ Card programmes, which, he said, are intended to improve living standards for people across the country.

Tarique Rahman also sought continued support from development partners to advance Bangladesh’s overall development and ensure sustainable progress.

Prime Minister’s Adviser on Education, Expatriates’ Welfare and Labour Mahdi Amin attended the meeting.

Also present were UNDP Strategic Communications and External Relations Specialist Kirtijai Pahari and Head of Governance Anowarul Haq.