(BSS)- Aga KHan Development Network (AKDN) has expressed keen interest in further strengthening its longstanding partnership with Bangladesh particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, renewable energy and humanitarian cooperation.

AKDN Diplomatic Representative Farouk S. Adatia said this during a courtesy call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here, said a ministry’s press release here.

During the meeting, Adatia praised the rejuvenation of Bangladesh’s foreign policy since the new government assumed office in February. He congratulated Bangladesh on the election of Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman as President of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

He also congratulated Bangladesh on its earlier election as President of the UNESCO General Conference.

Adatia expressed AKDN’s strong interest in further strengthening its partnership with Bangladesh, building on the longstanding goodwill and friendship.

In this regard, he highlighted the network’s interest in exploring private-sector investment opportunities aligned with the government’s priorities in education, healthcare, infrastructure and renewable energy.

The state minister appreciated the contributions of the Aga Khan community and the AKDN in Bangladesh and outlined the government’s forward-looking foreign policy priorities.

She particularly highlighted opportunities for cooperation in the education and health sectors in line with the government’s budgetary priorities.

Shama reaffirmed the government’s commitment to deepening engagement with AKDN, especially in the areas of girls’ education and women’s empowerment.

She also underscored the potential of the creative economy, particularly initiatives aimed at enhancing the economic participation of rural women.

The two sides discussed modernising the education curriculum through greater emphasis on sports, cultural activities, language learning and skills development programmes, including initiatives undertaken by the Aga Khan Academy.

They also exchanged views on healthcare services, nursing professional training and the possibility of AKDN’s involvement in addressing the Rohingya humanitarian crisis, which they agreed requires greater international attention and support.

The meeting further discussed the possibility of a future visit to Bangladesh by His Highness Rahim Aga Khan V at a mutually convenient time.

Earlier, the AKDN delegation met Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam and discussed issues of mutual interest.