The European Union (EU) and Germany have transferred EUR 33 million (USD3,90,92,790) to the Bangladesh government to strengthen key areas of its social security system and build resilience to Covid-19, particularly focusing on the affected workers in export-oriented industries.

The amount constitutes the second disbursement from the joint 113-million-euro (USD 13,38,54,489) grant made available by the EU and Germany as part of Team Europe's response to fight Covid-19 and its consequences beyond their own borders, The Daily Star reported.

EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Rensje Teerink said they encourage the government to ensure appropriate social protection systems and measures that protect those who are in need.

"Beyond the immediate Covid-19 response, this program represents a concrete first step towards the longer-term objective to establish adequate and sustainable social security for workers addressing different risks."

German Ambassador Peter Fahrenholtz said they are pleased to join forces with the EU and support the Bangladesh government in mitigating the negative effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on vulnerable workers in key export sectors like ready-made garments and leather.

"We hope that the support will reach as many eligible workers as possible and we count on the joint efforts of the government, the associations and the factories to achieve this."

The program was designed to run for two years (2020-22).

It provides direct cash transfer allowances (up to 3 months) to unemployed workers who meet the eligibility criteria and whose data is verified/validated as per the guidelines.

(SAM)