Zubaida Rahman calls for cooperation with Japanese foundation in the health sector

Bangla Press Desk: Dr. Zubaida Rahman, wife of the Prime Minister, has urged the Sasakawa Peace Foundation to enhance its cooperation in the development of healthcare, health research, maternal and child health, and modern medical infrastructure in Bangladesh.

She made this call on Tuesday (October 27) at a seminar on health-related issues, organized by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation in Tokyo, Japan.

Dr. Zubaida Rahman stated that the current government of Bangladesh has identified healthcare, education, and social protection as key policy priorities. The government has undertaken various initiatives, including ensuring affordable healthcare for all, improving the quality of public health services, recruiting healthcare personnel, and expanding opportunities in the health and education sectors for marginalized populations.

She noted that the government is working to improve the quality of life for its citizens through various measures, such as promoting employment-oriented education, increasing educational opportunities for underprivileged students, and implementing family-based social support programs, including the introduction of 'family cards.'

Highlighting health as a field of both professional and personal interest, Dr. Zubaida Rahman emphasized that ensuring the physical and mental well-being of individuals is of paramount importance. She noted that the bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and Japan continues to evolve, offering opportunities to leverage the experiences, knowledge, and capabilities of both nations to address emerging challenges in the health and social sectors.

She further stated that both Bangladesh and Japan are committed to ensuring that children grow up in a healthy environment and are able to fully realize their potential. Achieving this goal requires sustainable social systems, a robust economy, quality education, and the protection of individuals from violence, poverty, and other risks.

Addressing the significance of 'health diplomacy' in an increasingly interconnected world, Dr. Zubaida Rahman remarked that such diplomacy could play a vital role in achieving the shared objective of ensuring "health for all."

She also underscored the contributions made by non-governmental organizations, international institutions, voluntary initiatives, and philanthropic foundations—alongside government efforts—toward improving maternal and child health in Bangladesh. Drawing on her professional experience as a physician in Bangladesh, Dr. Zubaida Rahman noted that the country holds significant potential for implementing sound health policies, advancing medical research, and establishing modern healthcare institutions.

Commending the Sasakawa Peace Foundation for its tireless efforts toward safeguarding the health of children and vulnerable populations, Dr. Zubaida Rahman urged the foundation to further expand its operations in Bangladesh. She also called upon the foundation to provide additional resources and support to help address emerging health challenges.

Dr. Zubaida Rahman stated that the Government of Bangladesh is prepared to extend its full cooperation and support to initiatives aimed at ensuring health protection, promoting better health outcomes, and establishing a sustainable, long-term healthcare system.

The seminar was attended by several distinguished guests, including Yohei Sasakawa, Honorary Chairman of The Nippon Foundation and the Sasakawa Peace Foundation.

BP/SP