DHAKA, May 4, 2026 (V7N) — Dr. P. Chandra Shekhar, Director General of the Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP), paid a courtesy call on Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives (LGRD) Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir at the Secretariat today.

The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in research, training, innovation, and the implementation of sustainable rural development plans. Both sides expressed interest in working jointly to address challenges and undertake effective initiatives.

Mirza Fakhrul emphasized that collaboration with CIRDAP would bring “new momentum” to rural development. He highlighted CIRDAP’s potential role as a significant partner in skill development and innovative activities, assuring full government support for such initiatives.

Dr. Shekhar praised Bangladesh’s ongoing development programs, particularly noting the government’s Family Card initiative as a timely, people‑friendly measure.

The meeting was attended by senior officials including Shahidul Haque, Secretary of the Local Government Division; Mohang Shawkat Rashid Chowdhury, Secretary of the Rural Development and Cooperatives Division; and other ministry representatives.

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