Bangladesh government and Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) on Monday signed a protocol of cooperation for development in different fields including education, health, economy and environment. Foreign Minister Dr Dipu Moni and visiting AKDN chairman Prince Karim Aga Khan signed the protocol for their respective side at the Prime Minister’s Office. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina witnessed the signing of the protocol. Under the protocol, the AKDN will work for the development of health, education, economy and environment through its 10 organizations. The AKDN in phases will invest in the fields of tourism, health, technical education and other service sectors mainly to help meet the internal demand of Bangladesh. Ambassador at-Large M Ziauddin, PM’s Media Advisor Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury, Principal Secretary Shaikh Md Wahid-Uz-Zaman, Foreign Secretary Shahidul Haque and Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad were, among others, present. Earlier, Prince Karim Aga Khan made a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at the PMO. Briefing reporters after the meeting, PM’s Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad informed that Prince Karim Aga Khan told the Prime Minister that his organization will provide assistance in education sector, higher education for nurses, and the development of jute sector. The Aga Khan also praised Bangladesh’s tremendous development in different sectors including health, education, social safety net and women empowerment under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina appreciated the commendable work of Prince Karim Aga Khan on social, economic and cultural development across Africa, Middle East, and Central and South Asia. She also praised his leadership and dedication to the well-being of the Muslims, and helping them to overcome the challenges of tumultuous historical changes. Hasina said the Aga Khan’s organization (AKDN) should avail the excellent investment opportunities that Bangladesh offers to potential investors, especially in the fields of ICT, agro-processing industries and other related fields. – UNB
