Proud to be one of Bangladesh’s earliest European partners, he says
Photo: Star
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Photo: Star
German Ambassador to Bangladesh Rüdiger Lotz today reaffirmed Berlin’s long-term commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s sustainable development, poverty reduction, and environmental resilience, saying the partnership between the two countries remains broad, deep, and forward-looking.
He made the remarks while speaking at an award-distribution ceremony of the INCLUDE project of GIZ Bangladesh — honouring the top 12 citizen-led ideas for climate-resilient urban development, with four partner municipalities in Bangladesh.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star’s Google News channel. “Our cooperation today spans many sectors, including climate action, strategic governance, and local development,” he said. Germany is working with the Ministry of Local Government and other agencies through projects to address some of Bangladesh’s most pressing challenges, he added.
Lotz said Germany was proud to be one of Bangladesh’s earliest European partners, recalling that Berlin established diplomatic relations with Dhaka soon after independence.
Reaffirming Germany’s long-term commitment, the envoy said Berlin would continue supporting Bangladesh in reducing poverty, strengthening institutions, and promoting environmental sustainability. From renewable energy to vocational training, he said Germany’s cooperation aims to create long-term, positive change.
Lotz underscored Germany’s support for locally led initiatives, noting that effective solutions often emerge from within communities. Municipalities, he said, remain on the front line of sustainable development because they understand local challenges best and play a crucial role in crafting practical solutions.
The event honoured top 12 citizen-led ideas for climate-resilient urban development. The competition received more than 900 proposals nationwide.
Lotz praised the high participation of young people, describing their creativity and energy as vital for tackling future challenges.
LGD division joint secretary Md Al Mamun, German Embassy Deputy Head of Development Jannis Hussain, Rajshahi superintending engineer Mohammad Shahadat Hossain, and GIZ Bangladesh coordinator Martina Liebermann also addressed the event.