DHAKA, June 18, 2026 (BSS) - Bangladesh is keen to establish an institutional partnership with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further strengthen the country’s disaster preparedness and risk management initiatives.

The interest was expressed by Prime Minister’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir during a courtesy meeting with a delegation of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon today.

The IRC delegation was led by Hasina Rahman, Regional Deputy Director for Asia. Regional Advocacy Specialist and Head of Advocacy and Communications Shabira Nupur was also present at the meeting.

During the meeting, the two sides held discussions on enhancing cooperation in disaster preparedness, risk reduction and addressing climate change-induced challenges in Bangladesh.

Kobir said a formal partnership through a MoU could help further strengthen Bangladesh’s disaster preparedness and risk management programmes, according to a press release.

He noted that improving public capacity to respond to disasters, raising awareness and building resilience at the grassroots level could significantly reduce loss of lives and damage to livelihoods.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of strengthening pre-disaster preparedness, increasing public awareness and enhancing community capacity to cope with climate-related disasters and other emergencies.

Both sides underscored the need for joint initiatives to build sustainable resilience and support the implementation of Bangladesh’s disaster management priorities.

They reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close cooperation to further strengthen the country’s capacity to address future risks and challenges arising from disasters and climate change.

The meeting, held in a cordial atmosphere, expressed optimism that it would open new avenues of cooperation between Bangladesh and the IRC.