Bangladesh seeks Norway's technical support to strengthen local government

Bangladesh has expressed interest in leveraging Norway's experience and increasing technical cooperation with the country to make the local government system more effective and stronger. The two countries also discussed local government elections, development projects and increasing women's participation at the local level.

Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan held a courtesy meeting with Norwegian Ambassador to Bangladesh Arald Gulbrandsen at his office in the Secretariat on Thursday, September 17. During the meeting, the minister conveyed Bangladesh's interest in these matters.

The meeting emphasised enhancing the capacity of the local government system, the upcoming local government elections and technical assistance in various development projects. The minister said necessary cooperation and technical knowledge are important to strengthen local government. In this regard, Norway's experience in local government administration and management could be helpful for Bangladesh.

The meeting also highlighted increasing women's participation in local government institutions. Representatives of the two countries discussed opportunities to utilise Norway's experience and cooperation in getting more women involved at the local level.

Deputy Head of the Norwegian Mission in Bangladesh Alexander Falk-Bilden, Political Adviser Sarwar Jahan Chowdhury and Additional Secretary of the Local Government Division Dr Abu Naser Mohammad Abdullah, along with senior officials of the ministry, were present at the meeting.

During the meeting, the two countries discussed the exchange of experience and potential technical cooperation in the development of the local government sector. The meeting reflected interest in enhancing the capacity of the local government system and further expanding Bangladesh-Norway cooperation in the relevant sector.