The approval sends a positive signal to markets and development partners amid global turbulence. For millions of Bangladeshis reliant on timely rains, affordable inputs, and stable prices, it offers reassurance that food security remains a national and international priority.
In a sobering assessment released this week, the United Nations has painted a complex portrait of Afghanistan under Taliban governance, where a dramatic increase in security incidents coincides with fragile stability, devastating cross-border violence with Pakistan, and a deepening humanitarian and human rights crisis.
Experts argue that investment in agriculture, mining, manufacturing and transport infrastructure could help improve export performance and reduce dependence on imports.
The government has projected growth of around 4 per cent for the next fiscal year, while aiming to keep inflation under control and continue fiscal consolidation.
International mediators, including Qatar, continue to play pivotal roles. The coming weeks will test whether this ceasefire evolves into a comprehensive framework for Middle East security or remains a fragile pause.
The training of over 200 stakeholders represents not just technical progress but a strategic commitment to a greener future. As implementation gains momentum, Sri Lanka’s financial sector is poised to play a transformative role in the nation’s sustainable development journey.
For now, development agencies, implementing partners and beneficiaries across Bangladesh face an uncertain future as one of the country’s most significant sources of international development assistance comes to a sudden halt.
As India aspires to become a “global food basket,” initiatives like this position it as a leader sharing expertise with neighbours. Paswan’s vision aligns with Viksit Bharat, where food processing drives employment, nutrition, and sustainable development.
Deliberations at the session are informed by findings of a new ESCAP study Urban Transformation in Asia and the Pacific: From Growth to Resilience which offers policy solutions and showcases cities in the region that are already pioneering change.