Ambassador Strasser’s upbeat outlook is not without basis. Bangladesh has indeed made significant strides in recent decades. The country has graduated from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category and is now considered a lower-middle-income country. Its economy has grown at an average rate of 7% over the past decade, making it one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
Bangladesh has also made significant progress in reducing poverty. The poverty rate has declined from 58% in 1990 to 22% in 2018. This remarkable achievement is due in part to the government’s focus on social safety nets and microfinance programs.
Education and healthcare have also seen substantial improvements in Bangladesh. The literacy rate has increased from 35% in 1990 to 73% in 2018. Child mortality rates have also declined significantly, with the infant mortality rate falling from 117 per 1,000 live births in 1990 to 27 in 2018.
Of course, Bangladesh still faces significant challenges. Poverty remains a major issue, and there are wide disparities in income and access to basic services. The country is also vulnerable to natural disasters, such as floods and cyclones.
Despite these challenges, Ambassador Strasser’s optimism is warranted. Bangladesh has the potential to become a prosperous and developed nation. The country has a young and dynamic population, a growing middle class, and a strong commitment to development.
With continued investment in education, infrastructure, and social safety nets, Bangladesh can overcome its challenges and achieve its full potential. Ambassador Strasser’s upbeat outlook is a reminder that Bangladesh has the resilience and determination to build a better future for its people.
