No foreign fund used in Padma bridge construction: foreign ministry

Foreign Ministry Friday clarified that no foreign funds from any other bilateral or multilateral funding agency has financially contributed to the construction of Padma bridge.

“Ministry of Foreign Affairs categorically asserts that the Padma Multipurpose Bridge has been entirely funded by the Government of Bangladesh,” a foreign ministry press release said Friday.

Both Bangladeshi and foreign construction firms were engaged for implementation of the project, it added.

The ministry issued the statement as some quarters are trying to portray that the Padma Multipurpose Bridge which is scheduled to be inaugurated on 25 June by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been constructed with the assistance of foreign funds and is a part of the Belt and Road Initiative.

The completion of this bridge will fulfil the long cherished dream of the nation for connecting the 19 south-western districts with the rest of the country resulting in collective prosperity, socioeconomic development of Bangladesh as well as enhanced regional connectivity, said the foreign ministry press release.

The Foreign Ministry earnestly hoped that all friends of Bangladesh will join hands in celebrating the completion of this landmark project of Bangladesh which is all the more special since it has been done entirely by the contribution of the people and the Bangladesh.