The Government of Bangladesh has firmly reiterated that the Padma Multipurpose Bridge has been constructed entirely with domestic resources, dismissing claims that foreign loans or grants were involved in financing the landmark project.
In an official press release issued on Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that no bilateral or multilateral development partner provided financial support for the construction of the bridge. The ministry emphasised that the project was funded exclusively by the Government of Bangladesh, reflecting a historic commitment of national resources and public resolve.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs categorically asserts that the Padma Multipurpose Bridge has been fully financed by the Government of Bangladesh,” the statement said. While both Bangladeshi and foreign construction firms were engaged for technical execution, the ministry stressed that no external funding agency contributed financially to the project.
The clarification comes amid reports in certain quarters suggesting that the Padma Bridge was built with foreign assistance or under international initiatives such as China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The ministry described these claims as misleading and inaccurate, noting that they undermine the significance of Bangladesh’s achievement in independently delivering one of its largest infrastructure projects.
The Padma Multipurpose Bridge, scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on 25 June, is widely regarded as a symbol of national self-reliance. Spanning the mighty Padma River, the bridge connects the country’s south-western region with the capital and other economic centres, transforming connectivity for 19 districts.
Government officials expect the bridge to play a pivotal role in accelerating socio-economic development by reducing travel time, lowering transportation costs, and facilitating trade, investment, and industrial growth. The project is also anticipated to strengthen regional connectivity and integrate remote areas more closely into the national economy.
According to the Foreign Ministry, the completion of the bridge fulfils a long-cherished national aspiration and demonstrates Bangladesh’s capacity to overcome challenges through determination and domestic mobilisation of resources. The ministry expressed hope that international partners and friends of Bangladesh would join the nation in celebrating the successful completion of this iconic project.
“This achievement is especially meaningful because it has been realised entirely through the contributions of the people of Bangladesh,” the statement added, underscoring the bridge’s symbolic value beyond its economic impact.
Key Facts about the Padma Multipurpose Bridge
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding source | Government of Bangladesh (domestic funds only) |
| Foreign loans or grants | None |
| Construction partners | Bangladeshi and foreign firms (execution only) |
| Inauguration date | 25 June |
| Districts connected | 19 south-western districts |
| Strategic impact | National connectivity, economic growth, regional integration |
As Bangladesh prepares to inaugurate the Padma Bridge, the government has framed the project not merely as an engineering feat, but as a milestone in national confidence—demonstrating that large-scale development goals can be achieved through sovereign decision-making and internal capacity.