August 21, 2025

  The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), represented by Director General of Asia Operations Dr. Saud Ayid Al-Shammari, participated in the inauguration of the "Construction of Bridge over Teesta River in Gaibandha Project in the People’s Republic of Bangladesh". The ceremony was attended by Local Government and Youth and Sports Adviser of Bangladesh Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain.
 The project, valued at $50 million, is being financed by the fund through a concessional development loan. It reflects the strong development partnership that has spanned nearly 48 years between SFD and Bangladesh.
 The project entails the construction of a pre-stressed concrete bridge of approximately 1,500 meters to connect isolated villages along the Teesta River in Gaibandha to the main road network. It also aims to facilitate safe mobility for residents crossing the river and improve the transport of goods to markets and neighboring areas, which then strengthens trade and economic exchange of agricultural and industrial products, contributes to the growth of vital sectors, and supports the development and prosperity of local communities.
 Since beginning its development activities in Bangladesh in 1977, SFD has financed the implementation of 16 development projects and programs with concessional loans exceeding $494.7 million. In addition, Saudi Arabia, through SFD, has extended a grant worth more than $106 million to address the impacts of cyclones by financing 13 development projects and programs across the water, energy, health, and roads sectors—contributing to social growth and sustainable economic prosperity in Bangladesh.