DHAKA, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Some 1,425 automated sewing machines were distributed among slum dwellers to help enhance livelihood opportunities and address economic challenges in Bangladesh under the China-United Nations Development Program (UNDP) triangular cooperation project.
Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen, resident representative of UNDP in Bangladesh Stefan Liller and Mayor of Dhaka North City Corporation Atiqul Islam were present during the handover ceremony on Monday.
UNDP said it is supporting 1,245 individuals and six cooperatives by providing a total of 1,425 automated sewing machines received from China.
These machines, coupled with skill-enhancement training, aim to encourage entrepreneurship and readiness for job opportunities in the ready-made garment sector, UNDP said in a statement.
It said that the women from the urban poor community who received the automated sewing machines expressed hope that they would be able to fulfill their aspirations and ensure their safety.
"China-Bangladesh cooperation includes not only major projects such as the tunnels, roads and bridges, but also livelihood projects that benefit ordinary people," said Yao, adding that it's hoped that everyone who receives the sewing machine can improve the family conditions and let the children live a better life through their efforts.
In the future, China will carry out tripartite cooperation with UNDP and Dhaka North City Corporation, and implement more assistance projects in Bangladesh to improve the well-being of the Bangladeshi people, the ambassador added.
Mayor Islam said, "Giving the urban poor, particularly women, the tools and skills they need to improve their livelihoods, we can create a city where no one is left behind, and everyone is uplifted."
"I find it encouraging to see the work of UNDP and China are doing to bring the poor out of poverty."
Liller said that China has been "a valuable partner" in supporting the UNDP's global efforts. As one of UNDP's top 20 supporters, China's contributions have enabled us to operate in 170 countries and regions worldwide.
"We appreciate China's support, not only in our work within China itself but also in various countries through South-South cooperation mechanisms, which involve expertise and funding to promote economic empowerment and skill development like today at this distribution of automated sewing machines for the urban poor community mainly women," the UNDP representative added. ■
