Bangladesh’s Chittagong Hill Tracts received renewed pledges for sustainable and inclusive development from the ambassadors of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, following their recent four-day visit to Rangamati and Bandarban. The envoys toured various project sites under the joint initiatives of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Government of Bangladesh, witnessing first-hand the strides made in community empowerment, climate resilience, and gender equality.

From April 27 to 30, the delegation—led by UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stefan Liller and comprising Danish Ambassador Christian Brix Møller, Norwegian Ambassador Haakon Harald Gulbrandsen, and Swedish Ambassador Niclas Wiklund—engaged with indigenous communities, women-led committees, youth groups, and local government officials across the hill districts.

The ambassadors visited projects spanning health, education, climate adaptation, gender-based violence prevention, and sustainable livelihoods.

“We are proud to see the enduring impact of Denmark’s long-standing partnership with UNDP in the Chittagong Hill Tracts,” said Danish Ambassador Christian Brix Møller. “While challenges remain, we see great potential for sustainable growth in sectors like eco-tourism and agriculture that can empower local communities.” He emphasized Denmark’s ongoing commitment to climate adaptation, sustainable farming, and protecting indigenous rights.

In Rangamati and Bandarban, the envoys met members of women-led climate resilience committees, inspected solar-powered school transport systems, and interacted with local health workers and teachers.

Norwegian Ambassador Haakon Harald Gulbrandsen praised the community’s determination: “We witnessed how people, especially women, are taking charge of their own development—despite climate challenges, water scarcity, and educational constraints. Their resilience is truly inspiring.” He also highlighted the vital role of gender-based violence prevention centers in safeguarding and empowering local women.

Swedish Ambassador Niclas Wiklund described the visit as “an extraordinary experience,” saying, “The people of the Chittagong Hill Tracts are overcoming real challenges to improve their lives. Sweden deeply values the region’s cultural diversity and is proud of our long-standing collaboration with UNDP to promote education, healthcare, climate resilience, and gender equality.”

UNDP’s Stefan Liller reflected on the visit as a testament to enduring partnerships: “Our journey to the Chittagong Hill Tracts with the Nordic ambassadors reminds us of the success of this decades-long collaboration. Together with the Government of Bangladesh and our Nordic partners, we remain dedicated to advancing inclusive development for the communities of this unique region.”

The ambassadors’ visit underscores a shared commitment to fostering sustainable, inclusive growth in the Chittagong Hill Tracts—building hope for a resilient and empowered future.
 

BOB Post