The grants made available under the agreement will be used in support of Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) and be directed towards the areas of Health; Primary Level Education; Women’s Rights, Democratic Governance and Urban Environment. The largest share of the cooperation will be channelled to primary heath care and primary level education in support of the vision to ensure equitable and qualitative health care and education for all.

"This signals the start of new phase of Swedish cooperation with Bangladesh, a partnership that dates back to 1971” said Ambassador Hagström on the occasion. “Sweden and the world at large have been much impressed by the progress made by Bangladesh towards many of the Millennium Development Goals. At the same time many challenges remain. The funds now made available will be used to help create conditions and opportunities for poor women, men and children to improve their lives. That we sign a long-term agreement makes our support predictable. It also reflects Sweden’s strong commitment to support the efforts of present and future Governments of Bangladesh, civil society and individuals to reduce poverty.

“This agreement will act as pioneer for overall development of Bangladesh with a view to enhance its goal for MDGs. At this moment I remember with regards the role of the Kingdom of Sweden during our liberation war in 1971. So, as a committed friend of us, Sweden’s cooperation and contribution will lead to achieve the levels in our development sectors and future Democratic Governance of Bangladesh” says Mr. M Musharraf Hossain Bhuiyan, Secretary, Economic Relations Division.

Also Mr. Bijon Kumar Baishya, Joint Secretary, ERD and Mr. Ola Hallgren, Counsellor and Sida Country Director were present in the ceremony.