'This will allow the government to scale up development programs in response to the crisis, particularly infrastructure investment, while strengthening social safety nets to cushion the impacts on the poor and vulnerable,' said Mr. Kuroda who is on a two-day visit to Bangladesh.

Mr. Kuroda reaffirmed ADB's continuing strong support for the government's economic and social programs at a press conference, which was held following his meetings with Prime Minister Ms. Sheikh Hasina and Finance Minister Mr. AMA Muhith.

Infrastructure is essential for faster and more inclusive economic growth and ADB is encouraged by the new government's commitment to continue with critical reforms, particularly its commitment to scale up infrastructure investment, said Mr. Kuroda at a press conference during his visit.

ADB plans to tap on its countercyclical support fund to provide the increase in aid for Bangladesh. ADB recently set up a $3 billion countercyclical support facility to help its developing member countries cope with the global economic crisis and sustain longer-term growth.

Strong measures by the government to improve governance and law and order, along with efforts to enhance sub-regional cooperation and draw private sector investment, are equally critical to sustain economic growth and reduce poverty, added Mr. Kuroda.

He further announced that ADB is likely to increase its annual assistance package to Bangladesh to an average of $800 million in the next three years, up from $600 million a year during 2006-2008.

Bangladesh is one of the largest beneficiaries of the Asian Development Fund, a low-interest loan and grants facility established by ADB to bolster efforts of its poorest developing member countries to tackle poverty.

ADB has a long and active presence in Bangladesh, partnering with the government on a range of poverty alleviation and infrastructure development projects. Among the key development initiatives, it is currently involved are the design and construction of the Padma Bridge and programs to help mitigate the impact of climate change.

On the second day of his visit, Mr. Kuroda is scheduled to make a field trip to an ADB-funded urban health care project in Dhaka and meet up with beneficiaries of the project.

Bangladesh has received $9.86 billion in loans and $183 million in technical assistance from ADB over the years. ADB's resident mission in Bangladesh also enjoys the distinction of being the first overseas country field office established by the multilateral lending agency.#