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World Bank (WB) Vice President for South Asia Johannes Zutt has praised Bangladesh's interim government for taking up critical reforms aimed at strengthening economic resilience and enhancing transparency in public institutions.
During his first official visit on Wednesday since assuming the role, Mr Zutt reaffirmed the World Bank's commitment to supporting Bangladesh's development priorities and assisting its people in building a more resilient and inclusive economy.
"I am delighted to return to Bangladesh, where the people, especially the youth, are determined to secure a better future," said Mr Zutt.
"Our longstanding partnership has helped lift millions out of poverty, and we remain committed to helping the country strengthen its economic and climate resilience, attract private investment, and create meaningful job opportunities."
Before concluding his visit on Wednesday, Mr Zutt met Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, the planning adviser, the governor of Bangladesh Bank, the chief adviser's Special Envoy for International Affairs, and other senior government officials.
He also held discussions with private sector representatives to exchange views on emerging economic challenges and opportunities in the region.
According to a press release from the World Bank's Dhaka office, Mr Zutt briefed the chief adviser on the status of ongoing and upcoming development initiatives by the World Bank, which remains Bangladesh's largest multilateral development partner.
In response to the country's urgent needs, the World Bank committed more than $3 billion in the 2024-25 fiscal year to improve essential services such as healthcare, water and sanitation, and social protection. Additional investments are being channelled into infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and reforms in the financial and public sectors.
Mr Zutt, who previously served as the World Bank country director for Bangladesh about a decade ago, underscored the importance of continued cooperation to keep the country on a path of robust and inclusive growth.
Since 1972, the World Bank has committed over $46 billion in International Development Association (IDA) financing to Bangladesh, including grants, interest-free loans, and concessional credits to support the nation's development goals.
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