Bangladesh has been a main partner country for Norwegian development co-operation since 1973. Over the years Bangladesh has been among the largest recipients of Norwegian development assistance with a lotal of aound 6 billion NOK. Bangladesh has had relatively good economic and social development over many years and has gradually become less dependant on foreign assistance.
The overall priorities and framework for the development co-operation are outlined by a Memorandum of Understanding between Norway and Bangladesh of 20 April 2003, originally valid until 20 April 2007, but extended by one year to 20 April 2008. Since the MOU now has expired, the development co-operation is being reviewed again. The overall goal of the co-operation is to support Bangladesh's efforts to reduce poverty. Good governance so far has been an overriding concern. Education (mainly primary education) and private sector development (small business development, electrification, regulation of natural gas exploration) have been the two main sectors of support. Specific good governance and human rights projects, including women's rights, have also been supported.
A number of Norwegian organisations are involved in development work in Bangladesh through direct co-operation with various implementing partner organisations in the country. The Strømme Foundation, the Norwegian YMCA-YWCA, the Norwegian Peace Corps, Forum for Women and Development (FOKUS), the Norwegian Church Aid and the Norwegian Missions in Development are all active in Bangladesh.