KOICA chief meets Chief Adviser

Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) President Chang Won-sam called on Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna here today.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed enhancing development cooperation, investment, skills training and support for Bangladesh’s smooth graduation from LDC status, said Chief Adviser’s Press Wing this evening.

“It’s truly great for me to visit this country again. I convey the warm greetings from the President,” said KOICA President Chang Won-sam.

He reaffirmed KOICA’s political and developmental support for the interim government of Bangladesh and its ongoing reform initiatives.

Prof Yunus welcomed Chang Won-sam at the Jamuna and thanked him for his visit. The Chief Adviser expressed hope that Bangladesh and Korea would continue to advance together at an accelerated pace.

Presenting the government’s economic vision, Prof Yunus encouraged Korean investors and institutions to view Bangladesh as a long-term strategic partner in production and trade.

“We want to become a production hub,” he said, adding, “We can produce your products here and sell them everywhere. We have the manpower and the capabilities, and our young population is eager to work hard.”

The Chief Adviser placed special emphasis on people-centric cooperation, particularly in language training, healthcare, and skills development.

He urged KOICA to expand Korean language programmes in Bangladesh to widen opportunities for Bangladeshi youth in education, training, and employment in Korea.

Prof Yunus also called for deeper collaboration in healthcare training.

“It’s very crucial for our healthcare system and for global healthcare. We need to focus more on training nurses,” he said, noting the growing global demand for skilled nurses and health workers.

In response, KOICA President Chang Won-sam expressed willingness to explore expanded cooperation in skill development and education.

Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy for International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi and SDG Coordinator and Senior Secretary Lamiya Morshed were present at the meeting.