Water Resources Minister Md. Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anne spoke at a meeting with ADB Country Director at Secretariat today. Photo : Ministry

DHAKA, Aug 3, 2026 (BSS) - Water Resources Minister Md. Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anne today expressed hope that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) would continue its support for sustainable water resources management and the protection of the country's riverbanks.

"The government is keen to work with the ADB to strengthen quality economic cooperation," he said during a meeting with newly appointed ADB Country Director for Bangladesh Qingfeng Zhang at the Secretariat here. State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain Azad was also present.

Welcoming the new ADB country director, the minister said the development partner could play a more effective role in fostering sustainable economic growth, enhancing disaster resilience, expanding regional cooperation and improving people's quality of life.

He also called upon the ADB to enhance its support in formulating and implementing transformative programmes in the areas of water management, agriculture, environment, natural resources and rural development.

State Minister Farhad Hossain Azad described the ADB as one of Bangladesh's trusted development partners. He sought greater cooperation from the lender in sharing expertise on water management, providing educational and technical assistance, strengthening professional capacity through training and supporting research initiatives.

ADB Country Director Zhang said Bangladesh hosts one of the institution's largest country portfolios. He noted that the bank is working to further strengthen its partnership with Bangladesh and formulate a new Country Partnership Strategy.

He also expressed the ADB's interest in supporting sustainable water resources management, riverbank protection and river erosion prevention in Bangladesh.

Water Resources Secretary Dr AKM Shahabuddin, Additional Secretary Khondkar Azim Uddin and Additional Secretary Md. Enamul Haque, among others, attended the meeting.