Dhaka, Mar 30, (V7N) – Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister AZM Zahid Hossain has said the proposed Family Card programme will play a crucial role in ensuring comprehensive social protection for people across Bangladesh.

He made the remarks during a meeting with a Chinese delegation led by Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen at his office in the Bangladesh Secretariat today. The minister noted that the programme has already gained popularity among low-income groups and is part of the government’s broader commitment to expand social safety nets.

Highlighting the objectives of the initiative, he said the Ministry of Social Welfare is actively working to implement the Family Card programme, which will ensure family-based support covering education, healthcare, nutrition security, poverty alleviation and women’s empowerment.

Describing China as a long-standing and trusted partner, the minister emphasized its advancement in technology, particularly in smart card systems, which could be useful for Bangladesh in rolling out the programme effectively.

He added that China’s experience in developing transparent and technology-driven social protection mechanisms can play a supportive role in ensuring the success of the Family Card initiative.

Ambassador Yao Wen appreciated the programme, noting its growing popularity, and expressed China’s willingness to strengthen cooperation with Bangladesh not only in infrastructure but also in the social protection sector.

The meeting was also attended by State Minister Farzana Sharmeen, Social Welfare Secretary Mohammad Abu Yousuf, and other senior officials, with both sides emphasizing the need to further enhance bilateral cooperation.

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