European Investment Bank to boost funds for Bangladesh as it weathers political turmoil

A senior official of the European Investment Bank says the regional lending agency is keen to double its funding for Bangladesh, but she expressed concern over human rights as the country endures a spell of political turmoil. In an interview with The Associated Press, the bank's Vice President Nicola Beer said it will support reforms initiated by the interim government that has been running the country since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted in mass protests in early August. The 27-nation European Union is the largest destination for Bangladesh's garment exports, a vital lifeline for millions of the country's workers.