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DHAKA, October 20, 2025 (BSS) - Bangladesh has advanced its comprehensive strategy for tackling Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) following the second phase of a high-level meeting aimed at creating an implementation work plan for the existing joint declaration. 

The meeting, titled 'Formulation of the Implementation Work Plan for the Joint Declaration on Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases,' was organized by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with technical assistance from the World Health Organization (WHO).

The meeting took place in the Cabinet Division conference room. 

Dr Sheikh Abdur Rashid, the Cabinet Secretary, attended as the chief guest, while Md. Saidur Rahman, Secretary of the Health Services Division, chaired the proceedings.

In his speech, Abdur Rashid emphasized the urgent need for coordinated inter-ministerial action to prevent the rising rates of NCDs and untimely deaths.

This initiative builds upon a previously signed 'Joint Declaration' which involves 35 ministries and divisions, he added.

Representatives from key sectors, including education, youth and sports, and urban development, exchanged views on crucial strategies, such as increasing societal awareness, fostering behavioral change, and developing a health-supportive environment. 

Participants stressed the importance of mutual coordination, establishing a joint accountability structure, and ensuring the effective implementation of the resulting work plan. 

The meeting resulted in several significant proposals designed to accelerate the nation’s fight against NCDs.

The WHO representative remarked that Bangladesh’s proactive approach to NCD prevention is set to become an exemplary model for other nations across South Asia.