Momen calls for meaningful global partnership in tackling pandemic

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DHAKA, Nov 13, 2020 (BSS) – Foreign Minister Dr. A.K. Abdul Momen has called for robust and meaningful global partnership for timely implementation of the Agenda 2030 and for reducing the risk of future disasters like pandemic.

“COVID-19 response and recovery process provide us with an opportunity to work together and respond collectively for building a more sustainable and resilient world,” he said while virtually addressing the 44th annual foreign ministers’ meeting of the G-77 on Thursday, a foreign ministry press release said here today.

The foreign minister highlighted Bangladesh’s comprehensive response plan with a stimulus packages of around US$ 14.14 billion that is 4.3% of the country’s GDP to secure life and livelihood of the people minimizing pandemic impact under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Dr Momen referred to the Rohingya crisis that has caused double jeopardy for Bangladesh in tandem with the pandemic and heavily disrupted its phenomenal success towards achieving the SDGs.

He emphasized on the significance of ensuring equitable access to safe, effective and affordable Covid-19 vaccines and other preventive tools in his remarks.

In a virtual platform, foreign ministers of the member states of the Group of 77 and China discussed the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, challenges faced by developing countries in the economic, social and environmental areas.

The Group of 77 (G-77) was established on 15 June, 1964 by seventy-seven developing countries. Although the members of the G-77 have increased to 134 countries, the original name was retained due to its historic significance.