Dutch Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation Lilianne Ploumen and Minister of Infrastructure and the Environment Melanie Schultz van Haegen are visiting Bangladesh from 14 to 18 June. Textiles and water form the focus of the trip, which aims to strengthen bilateral trade and development ties. A multi-stakeholder delegation comprising representatives of Dutch water companies, textile companies, trade unions, NGOs and pension funds will accompany the ministers.
Bangladesh’s position as a delta country with a developing economy means it faces significant water challenges. High river discharges and cyclones mean that the country is often hit by heavy flooding. In addition, rapid industrialisation is causing groundwater in Dhaka to drop by two metres each year and there are significant issues surrounding drinking water and water treatment.
“Bangladesh’s water management challenges are immense,” said Ms Schultz. “On the one hand, there is too much water: almost nowhere else is the power of nature so apparent. But, on the other hand, there is a significant shortage of clean water. Bangladesh must become more resilient: for disasters this means preparing instead of repairing. Dutch water knowledge and expertise can help Bangladesh to do this.”
On Tuesday the ministers will visit projects where Dutch companies are putting their drinking water, drainage and dredging expertise to good use. They will also attend a meeting with the World Bank on water cooperation. In the evening there will be a trade dinner where Dutch and Bangladeshi businesses can explore opportunities to work together. After this, Ms Ploumen will return to the Netherlands.
On Wednesday Ms Schultz will visit the south of Bangladesh where, with Dutch support, investments are being made to increase flood resilience, improve sanitation and tackle poverty. She will visit newly constructed drainage polders and speak with some of the 18 million people who now have toilets thanks to Dutch assistance.
On Thursday Ms Schultz is expected to meet Bangladesh’s prime minister and will visit Dutch companies operating in Chittagong port. “Efficient, working ports are vital for economic development in countries like Bangladesh. With the latest knowledge, insights and innovative finance, Dutch businesses can, in cooperation with their European counterparts, make real inroads for sustainable port development,”said Ms Schultz.
