We know that the whole world is in a crisis. The fight of the human race against coronavirus is in full sewing regardless of whether a country is developed or developing. We see how countries in the developed world are also struggling to cope with the virus. But in countries like Bangladesh, the corona fight is more difficult.
On the one hand, the work in developing countries is two folds – for one, we have to work to protect public health and on the other hand, to provide relief for marginalized people.
Again, the main two pillars of Bangladesh’s economy are the export of garment products and expatriate incomes. It is also clear how small enterprises and the grass roots level labour sector are at risk due to the ‘lockdown’ situation. Internal efforts alone cannot be enough to cope with this crisis. We want the developed world to stand by us at this time.
Internal efforts alone cannot be enough to cope
with this crisis. We want the developed world
to stand by us at this time
It cannot be denied that Bangladesh has already grown economically. But there is no alternative to international assistance to deal with this crisis that we are facing right now. We already know that China has already provided health protection products.
In an open letter, the Chinese Ambassador appointed to Dhaka on Monday promised Bangladesh all kinds of cooperation in this situation. The United Nations has proposed co-operation in fundraising against coronavirus. A few days ago, the UK Minister of Foreign Affairs and phoned our Prime Minister and offered financial support to fight the virus’ spread.
It should not be forgotten that the burden of at least 1.2 million Rohingya people is on the shoulders of Bangladesh. The promised support for them must also continue. For Bangladesh, which is at the forefront of climate change, there is no respite for this support.
At the same time, development cooperation and credit flow should continue. Several infrastructure projects are already in the process of being implemented. In the absence of timely funding, it is necessary to ensure that these projects do not lose momentum. Bangladesh will surely want to turn around as soon as possible.