Staff Reporter
Local Government, Rural Development (LGRD) and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has emphasized the importance of stronger international cooperation to improve workers’ welfare, ensure occupational safety and create employment opportunities in Bangladesh, highlighting the significant role that the International Labour Organization (ILO) can play in these efforts.
The minister made the remarks during a meeting with a delegation of the ILO led by Bangladesh Country Director Max Tunon at his office in the Bangladesh Secretariat on May 19, according to an official press release issued by the ministry.
During the discussion, both sides explored a range of issues related to labour welfare, urban services and sustainable development. Particular attention was given to improving the living and working conditions of sanitation workers employed by city corporations across the country. The meeting also focused on initiatives aimed at enhancing workers’ skills, expanding employment opportunities and introducing modern waste management systems to support cleaner and more sustainable urban environments.
Addressing the delegation, the minister said the ILO possesses extensive expertise and experience that can contribute significantly to promoting safe working environments and protecting workers’ rights in Bangladesh. He noted that ensuring decent working conditions remains a key priority for the government as the country continues its economic and industrial development.
Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir also stressed the need for stronger international partnerships to support employment generation, trade expansion and industrial growth. He underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the impacts of climate change and strengthening the institutional capacity of local government bodies to deliver improved public services.
Highlighting the importance of sustainable development, the minister called for closer coordination between public and private sector institutions. He said effective cooperation among stakeholders is essential for achieving long-term development goals and improving the quality of life for citizens.
In a separate meeting held the same day, the minister met with a delegation from China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC) to discuss prospects for expanding cooperation in Bangladesh’s infrastructure and urban development sectors.
The discussions centered on potential joint initiatives involving safe water supply projects, modern sewerage systems, construction activities and broader urban infrastructure development. Both sides exchanged views on opportunities for collaboration that could contribute to improving urban services and supporting the country’s development agenda.
The minister reiterated that stronger international cooperation is crucial for ensuring safe working conditions, generating employment and accelerating sustainable development across Bangladesh.
Senior officials of the Local Government Division and heads of its subordinate departments attended the meetings. The engagements reflected the government’s continued efforts to strengthen global partnerships and promote inclusive development through improved labour standards, modern urban services and infrastructure advancement.
