British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke today paid a courtesy call on State Minister for Youth and Sports Md. Aminul Haque at his secretariat office to discuss bilateral cooperation in sports and youth development.
The bilateral meeting focused on improving the standard of women’s sports in Bangladesh, enhancing youth skills and strengthening sports diplomacy between the two countries.
Welcoming the High Commissioner, the State Minister said sports diplomacy can elevate bilateral relations to new heights.
He noted that the government is placing strong emphasis on sports development under the dynamic leadership of the Prime Minister.
He also highlighted the recently launched ‘Notun Kuri Sports’ programme, aimed at identifying grassroots talent among boys and girls aged 12 to 14, who will receive advanced training at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishthan.
The minister said the government is committed to bringing positive social change through sports and youth development, describing sports as an effective tool for reducing social inequality.
He also stressed the need for technical support to build a strong sports industry and expressed hope for UK assistance in enhancing the skills of coaches and athletes to meet international standards.
During the meeting, High Commissioner Sarah Cooke assured full support from the United Kingdom in developing women’s sports in Bangladesh.
She said the UK is keen to play an active role in this sector and highlighted opportunities for collaboration in events such as the Commonwealth Games.
She also mentioned that both countries can work together in disciplines like swimming, boxing and martial arts, and emphasized support for the Paralympic Games to ensure inclusivity at all levels of society, further strengthening friendly ties between the two countries.
MSH
