“The IsDB will always remain proactive over Bangladesh. Dhaka will be its first Regional Hub as the bank has decided to set up such hubs in different countries," he said.

The IsDB President met Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at Hotel Radisson after the inaugural ceremony of IsDB Regional Hub.

PM’s Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim briefed reporters after the meeting.

Dr Hajjar appreciated the economic development of Bangladesh and said its high successes in all indicators should be replicated in other member countries, particularly Africa.

The IsDB President also appreciated the financial management system of Bangladesh as it is successfully improving the social aspects along with economic development. 

He mentioned that IsDB will work for improving the lifestyle of people and committed to continuing its support to Bangladesh.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina extended her thanks to IsDB for its continued support to Bangladesh keeping it on the top of the list. “The IsDB support is very crucial for development,” the PM was quoted as saying. 

She said the government has attached importance to development of the country from rural level. 
“We’ve already ensured food security and reduced poverty to 22 percent, which would be further declined,” she said.

She sought more IsDB investment in various sectors, particularly in agro and food-processing industries, and hoped that the IsDB regional hub would help strengthen mutual cooperation.

Finance Minister AMA Muhith, State Minister for Finance MA Mannan, Principal Secretary M Nojibur Rahman, Chief Coordinator in PMO on SDG Affairs Abul Kalam Azad, ERD Secretary Kazi Shofiqul Azam and PMO Secretary Sajjadul Hassan attended the meeting.  

CEO of International Trade and Finance Corporation Engineer Hanisalem Sanbol, Lead Executive Coordinator of IsDB in Asia Dr Jafor Iqbal and Director, CRS Asia Ifran Bukhari accompanied the IsDB President.