Dhaka: Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury emphasized the government's commitment to implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a way that enhances the quality of life and economic participation for every citizen. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the National Conference on Five-Year Strategy and SDG held at the China Friendship Centre, Khosru highlighted the integration of SDGs into the BNP election manifesto, asserting that full implementation of this manifesto would achieve and surpass SDG targets.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Khosru stressed the necessity of a coordinated approach involving ministries, citizens, private sector organizations, and NGOs for successful SDG implementation. He elaborated on the ongoing efforts to coordinate ministries, engage with ordinary people, and conduct pilot projects to identify and rectify potential issues before broader implementation.
Khosru underscored that SDG implementation requires more than policy formulation or resource allocation, advocating for a "humanitarian government" focused on placing people at the heart of development. He identified socially focused programs like the Family Card and Farmer Card initiatives as government priorities, designed to support low-income individuals, rural communities, and persons with disabilities, despite economic challenges.
He noted the complexity of allocating resources for such programs during tough economic times, which necessitated reducing funding for other development projects to prioritize initiatives directly benefiting disadvantaged groups. Khosru also clarified that SDGs should not be perceived as mere charity for the poor, but as efforts to improve citizens' quality of life and ensure their economic, social, and civic rights.
Khosru discussed the government's concept of "democratisation of the economy," aligning it with SDG objectives. He emphasized that political democratization would succeed only with economic democratization, allowing every citizen to participate in and benefit from economic growth.
The Finance Minister also expressed the government's commitment to fostering a "creative economy" to help rural communities evolve beyond traditional economic activities. He highlighted the need to monetize these activities, adding value and creating markets that extend beyond domestic boundaries.
Recognizing the limitations of government resources, Khosru mentioned collaboration with the private sector and NGOs to provide essential design, inputs, financing, and market access. An executive committee, including designers, NGOs, and capable organizations, has been formed to ensure effective implementation.
Lastly, Khosru expressed optimism that through coordinated efforts and a development approach centered on human potential, Bangladesh would surpass the SDGs. State Minister for Planning Zonayed Abdur Rahim Saki reiterated the government's dedication to broader economic, social, and democratic transformation, while acknowledging the financial challenges posed by a US$421 billion financing gap required to achieve the SDGs. Saki highlighted efforts to reform the statistical and data management system for accurate progress measurement, in line with the Prime Minister's directives and the government's strategic framework.