Martin Raiser, vice president of the World Bank (WB) for South Asia, arrived in Dhaka on a four-day visit today, which the global financial institution stated was aimed at reinforcing its longstanding partnership with Bangladesh.

Raiser is scheduled to meet high-ups of the government, including the chief adviser of the interim government, finance adviser, energy adviser, the governor of Bangladesh Bank, and other senior government officials, according to a press release.

His visit aims to strengthen the country's partnership with the global institution and advance discussions on key development initiatives.

His meetings will focus on Bangladesh's ongoing development priorities and future collaborations with the WB.

Raiser will be accompanied by Pablo Saavedra, the WB's vice president for prosperity, who leads the institution's work on economic policy, poverty reduction, finance, institutional development, competition, and investment.

The WB has been a key partner in Bangladesh's development journey since the country gained independence, said the statement.

Over the years, the WB has committed approximately $44 billion to Bangladesh, predominantly in grants and concessional credits.

This makes Bangladesh the recipient of the largest ongoing programme supported by the WB's International Development Association (IDA).

Raiser's visit highlights the continued focus on strengthening the WB's engagement in Bangladesh, particularly in areas like economic growth, poverty alleviation, and social development, said the statement.

It underscores the importance of sustaining and deepening this vital partnership for Bangladesh's future.

This visit comes at a time when Bangladesh is grappling with various economic challenges, and it is expected that discussions will revolve around supporting the country's development ambitions, including energy sector reforms, financial stability, and inclusive growth strategies.