World Bank backs Bangladesh with $3b for essential services, reforms

World Bank Vice President for South Asia, Johannes Zutt, concluded his first official visit to Bangladesh, reaffirming the Bank's continued commitment to supporting the country's development priorities and helping its people build a more resilient and inclusive future.

During his visit, Zutt met with the Honourable Chief Adviser of the Interim Government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, and praised the government for implementing critical reforms aimed at strengthening economic resilience and improving transparency and accountability in public institutions.
He briefed the Chief Adviser on the World Bank's ongoing and planned support, highlighting that the organisation committed over $3 billion in the last fiscal year alone. The funding has been directed towards enhancing essential services, such as health, water, and sanitation, as well as social protection; increasing investment in infrastructure and environmental sustainability; and supporting reforms in the financial and public sectors.

"I am delighted to return to Bangladesh, where the people, and notably the youth, are determined to have a better future," said Johannes Zutt. "Our longstanding partnership with Bangladesh has helped lift millions out of poverty, and we will continue working with the country to build economic and climate resilience, mobilise private investment, and create opportunities for meaningful work."

Zutt also held meetings with the Honourable Finance Adviser, the Planning Adviser, the Bangladesh Bank Governor, the Special Envoy for International Affairs, and senior government officials, as well as representatives from the private sector. The discussions focused on navigating emerging economic challenges and unlocking new growth opportunities.

The World Bank was one of the first development partners to support Bangladesh following its independence. To date, it has committed more than $46 billion in IDA financing—through grants, interest-free loans, and concessional credits—to support the country's development trajectory.