World Bank Division Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan Jean Pesme paid a courtesy call on LGRD and Cooperatives Minister Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Sept 2, 2026 (BSS) – LGRD and Cooperatives Minister Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan has expressed hope that the World Bank will further strengthen its support for the country’s sustainable development and improvement of people’s quality of life.

He said various government initiatives are underway in important areas such as water supply, sanitation, rural development and addressing the impacts of climate change. 

Continued support from development partners is necessary to make these activities more effective and sustainable, he said when World Bank Division Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan Jean Pesme paid a courtesy call on him at his office at the Secretariat today.

Various issues including the World Bank’s support for various ongoing development projects in Bangladesh, water supply and sanitation systems, rural development, climate change and local government sector were discussed.

The minister said the government and development partners need to work in coordination to accelerate and sustain the country’s development activities. 

He said WB support could play an important role in strengthening the capacity of the local government sector and ensuring quality civic services reach people at their doorsteps.

The minister expressed gratitude for the World Bank’s longstanding support for Bangladesh’s development journey and hoped that the bank would continue its support for the country’s key development initiatives in the future.

During the exchange of views, emphasis was placed on further strengthening the existing cooperation between Bangladesh and the World Bank.

LGD Md Shahidul Hassan, senior officials from the ministry and the WB were present at the meeting.