Since June 1972, WHO Bangladesh has been providing technical assistance to the Government of Bangladesh and its partners for health development, with a strong focus on strengthening the public health system. Its biennial budget and work-plans are aligned with national plans and programmes, and are harmonized with activities of other development partners.

Over the decades Bangladesh has made considerable progress in improving the health status of its population. Life expectancy has increased while mortality, morbidity and fertility have decreased. Nevertheless, many challenges remain to be addressed. There are still unacceptably high levels of maternal and neonatal mortality. Communicable diseases continue to be a prevalent problem and noncommunicable diseases show a rising trend. Economic, social and environmental determinants of health need to be addressed effectively. Moreover, health systems are to be made responsive to provide equitable access to quality health care for the entire population.

The first CCS for Bangladesh was for the period from 2004 to 2007. During that time Bangladesh made substantial progress in health development. This second CCS covers the years 2008 to 2013 and focuses on new challenges. The groundwork and development of this CCS were extensive, with close involvement of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, other relevant ministries and key health development partners in the country. Two stakeholder meetings were held in Bangladesh to discuss the work of WHO in the country and to review the proposed CCS draft. We appreciate the efforts of the Government and other partners made during this period, which have helped to guide the work of WHO in Bangladesh. We recognize that a strong and capable WHO country office is a key to successfully achieving the strategic agenda of the CCS. Therefore, we will continue to strengthen the Bangladesh Country Office over the CCS period. I can assure all concerned that we are committed to this CCS and will provide support as needed. Finally, I would like to thank all those who were involved in developing this CCS for Bangladesh. We expect that the work of WHO, along with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, other relevant ministries and our development partners will lead to further improvements in the health of the people of Bangladesh.