Adviser to the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Supradip Chakma. -File photo

DHAKA, Jan 13, 2026 (BSS) - Adviser to the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Supradip Chakma today emphasized the importance of global partnerships in transforming the hill-people into skilled human resources and improving their living standards.

He made the remarks while a four-member delegation led by International Labour Organization (ILO) Country Director in Bangladesh Max Tunon paid a courtesy call on him at his office at the Secretariat here.

During the meeting, both sides held detailed discussions on the sustainable development of the Chittagong Hill Tracts, enhancement of technical skills and ensuring global labour market standards in the region.

The ILO delegation expressed keen interest in focusing on the Chittagong Hill Tracts through the ProGRESS project, funded by the Canadian government. 

The project aims to support women’s development, enhance technical skills and promote entrepreneurship among local communities. 

The delegation also highlighted the potential of the tourism sector in driving economic prosperity in the hilly regions.

Welcoming the ILO representatives, Adviser Supradip Chakma said the current government is working relentlessly to improve the living standards and capacity of the people in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. 

He noted that all development projects are being implemented in line with international standards and labour laws.

The adviser further stressed that alongside infrastructural development, building skilled human resources, protecting biodiversity and maintaining environmental balance remain key priorities. 

“With the cooperation of the ILO and other international organizations, rapid socio-economic transformation of the hill region is possible,” he said, thanking the ILO for its commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s development efforts.

Secretary of the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Mohammed Mizanur Rahman, Additional Secretary Md. Monirul Islam and Joint Secretary Atul Sarkar were present at the meeting.

The ILO delegation also included Pedro Jr. Bellen, Chief Technical Adviser of the ProGRESS Project, Gunjan Dallakoti, Head of Programme at the ILO Country Office, and Alexius Chicham, National Programme Officer.