US to support core components of agri economy: Rajiv Shah

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The United States will support strategy and core components of the agriculture economy of Bangladesh as the government is prioritising investment, research, rice, investment in fisheries and livestock, reports UNB.
USAID Administrator Dr Rajiv Shah who came here to attend a seminar on Bangladesh Food Security Investment Forum made the remarks to journalists at Hotel Sonargaon on Wednesday.
"You heard many of the things including investment in extending research, education, more diversified diets and more diversified agricultural economy. These are the core components of a strategic way forward, we'll support it," he said.
Asked about the general impression about Bangladesh Food Security Investment Forum, Rajiv said: "It's a sign of senior-level political leadership and this is an initial outstanding demonstration of political partnership."
The USAID chief said President Barack Obama's administration is working with a much deeper spirit of partnership with countries across the world including Bangladesh to turn around the rising tide of hunger.
He said Bangladesh would receive US$ 220 million as food aid for the next five years which will help the country move closer to its goal of achieving food security.
"In addition to that, today I announced that we'll invest US$ 20 million in this calendar year, to support this initiative," he said.
Replying to a question on whether USAID will come up with aid for country's ailing energy sector he said: I do agree with your assumption that USAID and US partnership with countries did have strong focus on energy as a core component for driving economic growth. ….we're already beginning to reinvest and reengage in the energy sector in many parts of the world."
USAID Administrator Dr. Rajiv Shah called on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at her office Wednesday noon. While discussing various issues with the Prime Minister, he said the United States has placed Bangladesh in a list of countries to which it will provide all out cooperation in its various programmes including food security, climate change, education, health, women empowerment and good governance.
Sheikh Hasina appreciated the continued support of USA in the country's socio-economic development, building democratic institutions, protection of environment, gender issues and counter terrorism.
She said her government is working to ensure a better life for the people.
The Prime Minister said there is no room for terrorism and militancy on the soil of Bangladesh and her government has already taken various steps to root out militancy.
She said her government has laid emphasis on research to invent flood and salinity tolerant varieties of paddy for securing its food reserves.
Besides, steps have been taken for dredging the country's rivers to increase navigability and use reclaimed land for small scale industry.