DHAKA, May 15, 2024 (BSS) - The Economic Relations Division (ERD) and the New

Development Bank (NDB) today successfully organised a comprehensive workshop
focusing on Environmental and Social (E&S) Risk Management and Use of Country
Systems.

The event, held at a city hotel, gathered key stakeholders from government
agencies, financial institutions, civil society and the private sector to
delve into crucial discussions on NDB's Environmental and Social Framework
(ESF) and its compatibility with Bangladesh's E&S country system, said a
press release here.

The workshop commenced with a vibrant inaugural session graced by the welcome
notes of Joint Secretary of ERD Masuma Akter and the Chief of ESG Department
of NDB.

Subsequently, the Director General (DG) of Indian Regional Office of the NDB,
Dr. DJ Pandian provided an overview of NDB's operations and opportunities in
Bangladesh to finance sustainable development across multiple sectors.

Secretary of the ERD Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky addressed the programme as
the chief guest with Additional Secretary and Wing Chief of Asia, JEC and F&F
Wing Md. Anwar Hossain in the chair.

They conveyed profound insights and gratitude, setting a tone of
collaboration and commitment to address environmental and social challenges
in project implementation.

Throughout the event, participants engaged in informative sessions aimed at
enhancing understanding on identifying and managing E&S risks from project
preparation to implementation.
 
Key modules included an overview of NDB's Environmental and Social Framework
(ESF), a review of Bangladesh's Environment and Social Country System, and
discussions on good practices in E&S risk management, enriched by case
studies and technical recommendations.

The interactive nature of the workshop was further underscored by engaging
Q&A sessions following each module, allowing for exchange of perspectives and
insights among participants and experts from NDB.

The workshop concluded with closing remarks by ERD, highlighting the
importance of continued collaboration and knowledge-sharing initiatives in
advancing sustainable development agendas.
 
NDB extended a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation for the fruitful
discussions and reaffirming its commitment to supporting Bangladesh in its
journey towards environmentally and socially responsible project
implementation.

In addition to the structured sessions, attendees had the opportunity to
network and engage in an open house session, fostering deeper connections and
partnerships in the realm of environmental and social risk management.

The event not only served as a platform for knowledge dissemination about the
NDB's ESF but also as a catalyst for capacity building, equipping
stakeholders with the tools and insights necessary to navigate the
complexities of E&S risk management in project financing.