During a meeting with UNDP goodwill ambassador and Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina emphasized the need for the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) to mobilize greater international funds to support the Rohingya people. Speaking at a city hotel, Sheikh Hasina underscored Bangladesh's humanitarian efforts in providing shelter to forcibly displaced Rohingyas from Myanmar, highlighting the improved accommodation arrangements in Bhashanchar capable of hosting up to one lakh Rohingya residents.
Seeking assistance from UNDP to facilitate the relocation of more Rohingyas to Bhashanchar, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of international support in addressing the ongoing Rohingya crisis. Princess Victoria's visit to Bangladesh includes tours of Rohingya camps in Cox’s Bazar and Bhashanchar, underscoring the significance of global solidarity in addressing the plight of Rohingya refugees.
The meeting also touched upon bilateral and multilateral issues, including climate change, with both parties expressing optimism for deepening bilateral relations between Sweden and Bangladesh. Sheikh Hasina urged Swedish businesses to explore investment opportunities in Bangladesh, particularly in special economic zones, highlighting Bangladesh's resilience in the face of climate change-induced challenges.
Acknowledging Bangladesh's vulnerability to climate change impacts, Sheikh Hasina outlined the country's efforts in climate adaptation and mitigation, including the establishment of a climate trust fund to protect local communities and livelihoods. She reiterated her government's commitment to poverty alleviation, citing significant reductions in poverty and extreme poverty rates achieved through targeted interventions.
Reflecting on her personal connection to Sweden, Sheikh Hasina recalled her first visit to the country in 1969, emphasizing the longstanding ties between the two nations. The meeting underscored the shared commitment to addressing global challenges and fostering stronger cooperation for the benefit of both countries.
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