Dhaka, Nov 08 (V7N)- The Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie, will arrive in Bangladesh on Monday (November 9) for a three-day visit aimed at strengthening UK-Bangladesh relations, promoting women's empowerment and highlighting humanitarian support for Rohingya refugees.
During her stay until Wednesday (November 11), the Duchess is scheduled to meet President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Dr Zubaida Rahman, wife of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, in Dhaka.
According to a statement issued by Royal Communications, the Duchess will meet representatives of communities and organisations whose work reflects the breadth of the partnership between the United Kingdom and Bangladesh. She will also observe humanitarian programmes supporting the Rohingya community.
During her meetings in Dhaka, discussions will focus on shared interests, particularly the welfare, protection and empowerment of women and girls.
The Duchess is also scheduled to visit the Bangladesh Institute of Peace Support Operations Training (BIPSOT), where she will learn about Bangladesh's contribution to United Nations peacekeeping operations. The visit will also highlight the importance of women's participation in promoting international peace and security.
At the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan (BKSP), she will meet young athletes, including female hockey players, to explore how sports can create opportunities for women and girls.
She will also attend an event marking the 75th anniversary of the British Council in Bangladesh. The programme will bring her together with young people to celebrate education, cultural exchange and women's empowerment.
As part of her visit, the Duchess will travel to Cox's Bazar to observe the work of organisations supporting Rohingya refugees.
There, she will learn about protection and support services for displaced women, girls and families, as well as initiatives designed to strengthen resilience and leadership within refugee communities. She will also see rehabilitation, protection and inclusion programmes aimed at helping women and children build better futures despite displacement.
The Duchess of Edinburgh is visiting Bangladesh at the request of the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). She previously visited the country in 2017.
END/SMA/AJ
