The Netherlands, known for its advanced irrigation methods, has shown interest in assisting Bangladesh in modernizing its irrigation system. Foreign adviser Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury held meetings with the Dutch foreign minister and development cooperation minister in Amsterdam to discuss potential cooperation in areas such as modern irrigation systems, livestock and dairy, food processing, and agro-business development. They also discussed the importance of channelling Dutch assistance through the government rather than NGOs and multilateral agencies. Additionally, Chowdhury met with his Dutch counterpart Maxime Verhagen during his visit. Bangladesh described the Netherlands as a reliable partner for development during a recent meeting, as stated by the foreign ministry. Iftekhar encouraged the Dutch foreign minister to expand imports from Bangladesh beyond just the ready-made garments industry, including areas such as small and medium-sized ships. They also agreed to collaborate on issues like climate change. Verhagen pledged support for the electoral process and received updates on preparations for the Jatiya Sangsad polls from the adviser. Iftekhar highlighted the importance of having a European Union Observer Mission during the upcoming elections while briefing the Dutch minister on the current government's reform programs. Bangladeshi Ambassador to the Netherlands Mizanur Rahman, Director General of the Foreign Ministry M Zulfiqur Rahman, and the Dutch Ambassador to Bangladesh Bea Ten Touscher were also in attendance at the meetings.