ADB seeks speedy approval of vaccine project

Asian Development Bank (ADB) wants quick project approval to increase Bangladesh's vaccine production capacity.

At present, the process of preparing the project proposal is underway. If the project is not approved by December 31, getting a low-interest loan will be uncertain.

ADB's Country Director Edimon Ginting made the remarks while replying to a question after attending a courtesy call of the Planning Minister MA Mannan held at his office in Dhaka on Wednesday.

After the meeting, the Planning Minister told reporters that vaccines for various diseases including Corona and Dengue will be developed.

There may be more viruses in the future, he said, adding that is why preparation is needed from now.

"The government has taken up the project for that. There, ADB will lend $338 million for the project. Of this, half will be at low interest rate loans and half at near market rates. ADB has urged the government to approve the project as soon as possible," the planning minister said.