Dhaka:Dr Zubaida Rahman, spouse of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Vice President of the Ziaur Rahman Foundation (ZRF), met with the Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie, in Dhaka. During the meeting, Dr Rahman highlighted the government's initiatives aimed at building a healthy Bangladesh, including efforts to reduce maternal mortality and the recruitment of 100,000 health workers to enhance healthcare services.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Dr Rahman also discussed social safety net programs such as the 'Family and Farmers' cards, which are designed to provide social and economic support to families and communities. Additionally, she emphasized the importance of free education for girls and expanding opportunities for women.
The meeting was attended by several dignitaries, including State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, Adviser to the Prime Minister Mahdi Amin, and British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke. The discussions provided an opportunity to explore cooperation on shared priorities like women's empowerment, healthcare, education, and protecting vulnerable communities.
Dr Rahman welcomed the Duchess to Bangladesh, acknowledging her commitment to women's empowerment, girls' education, and child welfare. The meeting also covered topics such as economic empowerment for women, maternal and child healthcare, gender-based violence, and youth development.
Dr Rahman spoke about the Ziaur Rahman Foundation and SUROVI's contributions to social welfare, particularly in supporting disadvantaged communities. She highlighted their efforts in promoting economic independence and skills development for women, as well as SUROVI's focus on education, child protection, health, nutrition, and skills development for marginalized communities.
The Duchess appreciated the government's healthcare, education, and women's empowerment initiatives. She commended SUROVI and the Ziaur Rahman Foundation for their roles in shaping government policies and emphasized the Prime Minister's advocacy against violence against women.
Dr Rahman also expressed gratitude for the Duchess's interest in the Rohingya crisis, underscoring the need for international support for the Rohingyas and host communities in Bangladesh. The Duchess assured continued advocacy for keeping the Rohingya issue on the international agenda and acknowledged Bangladesh's efforts in hosting the Rohingya population.