PM links SDG success with democratic governance

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday said achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would require collective efforts from all sections of society, outlining the government’s vision of a democratic state based on free elections, rule of law and institutional accountability.

“No single ministry or department can implement the SDGs alone. Success requires the collective efforts of the government, private sector, development partners, NGOs, civil society, the media and every citizen,” he said.

The prime minister made the remarks while inaugurating the national conference titled “Navigating Five-Year Strategic Framework for Achieving SDGs: Policy, Partnership and Priority 2026.”

The General Economics Division (GED) of the Bangladesh Planning Commission and the Governance Innovation Unit (GIU) of the Prime Minister’s Office jointly organised the national conference at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre.

Tarique Rahman expressed hope that during the three-day conference each coordinating ministry and division will discuss its progress, challenges and future priorities and formulate realistic and timely action plans to achieve the SDGs.

“Let us all work with firm determination to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030,” the Prime Minister said.

He said the current government’s vision for the days ahead is clear on several fundamental issues.

“We want to build a democratic state where there will be free elections, rule of law and institutional accountability; a humane state where healthcare, education and citizens’ rights will be universal; and a welfare state where equal economic opportunities and intergenerational equity will be ensured,” the Prime Minister said.�"UNB