AIIB renews commitment to strengthen BDs sustainable development

Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali, the Finance Minister of Bangladesh, visited the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) Abu Dhabi Hub Office in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on Wednesday. This visit marks the first overseas mission of AIIB, which has been operational since September 2023. Welcomed by Yuanjiang Sun, Head of the Hub, and senior officials of the Bank, the Finance Ministers visit was recognized as pivotal in fostering robust development cooperation between AIIB and Bangladesh.

After a tour of the facilities, the Finance Minister engaged in discussions with AIIB officials, reviewing the status of ongoing and pipeline projects in Bangladesh. They explored further cooperation opportunities in renewable energy, transportation, smart city development, water supply, urban development, and other potential sectors.

While appreciating AIIBs partnership with Bangladesh in promoting sustainable infrastructure and fostering economic growth in the country, the Finance Minister reiterated Bangladeshs continued support for the Banks endeavors in the region and beyond. He expressed optimism that the AIIB Abu Dhabi Hub would contribute significantly to realizing AIIBs agenda in the region. Ambassador of Bangladesh to the UAE Mr. Abu Zafar and Additional Secretary of ERD Mr. Anwar Hossain, among others, accompanied the Finance Minister during the visit.
AIIB, a multilateral development bank, strives to promote sustainable infrastructure development and regional connectivity, prioritizing economic growth, poverty reduction, and environmental sustainability. Bangladesh is a founding member of AIIB, and the Finance Minister is a member of the Board of Governors of the Bank. Bangladesh is currently the 5th largest recipient of AIIBs financing.

In the afternoon, the Finance Minister visited the Embassy of Bangladesh in Abu Dhabi. There, he toured the facilities at the chancery, which are dedicated to providing consular and welfare services to the expatriate Bangladeshi community. Engaging in discussions with embassy officials, he expressed satisfaction with the embassys activities and its expatriate-friendly environment.

The Finance Minister is presently in Abu Dhabi for a three-day visit, attending the 13th AIM (Annual Investment Meeting) Congress-2024 at the invitation of the UAE government. Apart from participating in the AIM events, he engaged in bilateral meetings with UAE dignitaries, fostering fruitful discussions aimed at enhancing bilateral relations through meaningful engagements. The Finance Minister is expected to return to Dhaka on Thursday.