Kazi Rafiqul Alam, Managing Director of Trust Group, proudly represented Bangladesh at the session on Agriculture & Rural Development during the Fifth United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LDC5). This high-profile session brought together global leaders and industry experts to discuss sustainable agricultural practices and rural economic development.
Mr. Alam was joined by:
- Alessandro Cataldo, EMEIA Head of Agrifood Sector, EY Switzerland
- H.E. Andrzej Duda, President of the Republic of Poland
- H.E. Ambassador Sheikh Mohammed Belal, Managing Director, Common Fund for Commodities (CFC)
- Brad Staples, CEO of APCO Worldwide
- H.E. Mohamed Bin Ahmed Al Obaidly, Board Member and Head of Food and Agriculture Committee, Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry
During the session, Kazi Rafiqul Alam highlighted Bangladesh’s progress in agriculture, emphasizing the role of private enterprises in driving rural development and improving livelihoods. He spoke about Bangladesh’s transition to sustainable farming and the integration of technology, digital marketplaces, and e-commerce platforms in the agricultural value chain.
“Agriculture is not just about food production—it is the backbone of rural economies,” Mr. Alam said in his remarks. “Bangladesh’s success story demonstrates how public-private partnerships, innovation, and entrepreneurial initiatives can transform rural regions and empower communities.”
Mr. Alam also stressed the importance of climate resilience and green technology in agriculture, aligning with global efforts to mitigate climate change. He urged the international community to provide greater access to finance, knowledge exchange, and capacity-building for least developed countries to harness their agricultural potential.
The session was an essential part of LDC5’s agenda, aimed at addressing the challenges of food security, economic diversification, and rural development for least developed nations. The discussions reflected a shared commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture and achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).