Switzerland says development cooperation with Bangladesh must evolve, with greater focus on investment, risk reduction, stronger institutions and mobilising sustainable development financing.
Bangladesh has launched a Five Year Strategic Framework for Reform and Development for 2026-2031, setting out the country’s priorities for sustainable development and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
Following the official launch in the presence of the Prime Minister, the Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh participated in sectoral discussions at a conference on the framework.
On the second day of the conference, Diepak Elmer, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of Switzerland, spoke in a session on the role of development partners.
Elmer welcomed the new plan’s emphasis on mobilising Bangladesh’s own resources and private investment alongside public and international financing.
“As Bangladesh’s economy evolves, development cooperation must evolve too,” he said.
He said development partners can increasingly complement traditional grants by helping unlock investment, reduce risks, strengthen institutions and mobilise more financing for sustainable development.
Switzerland remains committed to sharing its experience and working with Bangladesh and the wider development community towards an inclusive, resilient and sustainable future, the Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh said in a statement dated August 12.
