UNFPA Executive Director Diene Keita has pledged to champion Bangladesh’s development initiatives globally, highlighting the country’s political commitment to demographic resilience, women’s empowerment, universal healthcare, and an inclusive social security system. This commitment was made during a meeting with a Bangladesh delegation led by Adviser to the Prime Minister for Finance and Planning Dr. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir at UNFPA Headquarters in New York.
What are Bangladesh's priorities?
Dr. Titumir outlined the government’s priorities, including a universal life-cycle-based social security system centered on women, the Family Card initiative, investment in education and health, youth skills and employment, healthy ageing, credible population data, and stronger primary healthcare.
How does Bangladesh support the Rohingya population?
Dr. Titumir emphasized that Bangladesh continues to host more than 1.2 million Rohingyas on humanitarian grounds, placing significant economic, environmental, and security pressures on the country. He called for greater UNFPA engagement to support the early repatriation of the Rohingya to Myanmar and to ensure they can live in safety and dignity upon their return.
What is Bangladesh's approach to demographic dividends?
Dr. Titumir highlighted Bangladesh's large youth population as a unique demographic dividend while emphasizing the need to prepare for a longevity dividend as the population ages.
What does Bangladesh aim to achieve in healthcare?
State Minister Zonayed Saki said the government aims to build an integrated primary healthcare system that reaches every citizen, with particular focus on mothers, children, and underserved communities. He also sought closer cooperation in strengthening Bangladesh's national statistical system and aligning UNFPA's next Country Programme with the Government's Five-Year Strategic Framework.
