Bangladesh Seeks Global Partnership for Key Development Goals
Irene Khan, Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, has called for more international support. She asked development partners to help Bangladesh reach its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This support will also ensure a smooth exit from the Least Developed Country (LDC) group.
Khan spoke at a national conference in Dhaka on Monday. The event focused on achieving the SDGs. She said Bangladesh is now in a special time for major development progress. The government wants to work with the global community. They want to discuss development priorities. They also want to speed up SDG actions.
Khan said her UN role is to connect Bangladesh’s efforts with the world. This ensures national issues get global attention. She noted Bangladesh did well with the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). However, the SDGs are much bigger and more complex. The remaining time to reach these goals will be challenging. But it is a very important journey for Bangladesh.
Bangladesh is investing in key areas. It is also improving how projects are done and watched. The country is working closely with development partners. This helps make up for lost time. Khan also stressed the role of local groups. Civil society and communities are very important. They deliver help to people on the ground.
There is a strong link between SDG efforts and LDC graduation. Bangladesh asked for more time to prepare for leaving the LDC category. This extra time will help ensure a stable and lasting transition. These two goals create a strong reason for Bangladesh to improve and develop faster. Many reforms needed for LDC graduation are also part of SDG work. These include stronger banks and better trade.
Khan said Bangladesh must be creative. The country has limited money. But it has much energy, creativity, and new ideas. She expressed confidence that these strengths can boost development. She urged the global community to stand with Bangladesh. They should provide necessary support during this important time.
SM Abdul-Awal, from the Prime Minister’s Office, also spoke. He asked for more support from partners. This includes easier loans and debt relief. He noted Bangladesh has made good progress in reducing poverty and improving education. But it needs to do better in health, water, and clean energy.
Carol Flore-Smereczniak is the UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh. She said development partners are ready to help. They will support Bangladesh’s five-year development plan. She explained that the SDGs are practical tools. They help Bangladesh achieve its goals of stronger institutions and inclusive growth. Bangladesh aims to become a trillion-dollar economy by 2034.
Flore-Smereczniak added that leaving the LDC category brings new chances. But it also needs more competition and different kinds of exports. Closing the funding gap needs local money, smart spending, and private sector help. It also needs climate finance and continued international aid.
