The second international conference on local government took place in Dhaka, Bangladesh on 27-28 March that highlighted the role of local governments and associations in socio-economic development. Organised by Municipal Association of Bangladesh (MAB), the conference discussed the theme Engaging people, promoting good governance.

Speaking at the event, President Abdul Hamid said that local government organisations need to continue working towards peoples’ welfare by having a direct contact with them and enhancing accountability and transparency. Speaking at the event, CLGF Secretary-General Carl Wright said, “CLGF has worked actively with MAB to implement local economic development in pilot local authorities in Bangladesh. Bangladesh is also a partner in our South Asia programme, supported by DFID (UKaid), and has attended CLGF’s 2014 regional symposium in Colombo – which helped in the establishment of the South Asia Forum of Local Government to promote inter-regional exchange.”

CLGF Board member Mayor Moulana, Chairman of the Federation of Sri Lanka Local Government Authorities also participated at the conference.

CLGF Secretary-General subsequently visited Colombo on 31 March to meet with Hon K Jayasuriya, Sri Lankan Minister of Public Administration to discuss CLGF's work in the country.

Read the outcomes from the conference: Dhaka declaration