By Friendship News Desk
1 March 2026
Prime Bank PLC has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Friendship to launch “Safe Shores: Empowering Char Communities against Climate Change,” a landmark climate-resilient development initiative under the Bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. The project aims to enhance climate adaptation capacity, safeguard livelihoods, and build long-term resilience in Vatpara, one of the most vulnerable chars under Astamir char union in Chilmari subdistrict of Kurigram district, a community that faces recurring floods, river erosion, and extreme climate events.
The MoU was signed by Hassan O. Rashid, Chief Executive Officer, Prime Bank PLC; and Runa Khan, Founder of Friendship. Also present at the ceremony were Md. Ziaur Rahman, Deputy Managing Director & Chief Risk Officer, Prime Bank; and Muhammed Shameem Reza, Senior Director, Legal & Chief Financial Officer, Friendship.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Rashid stated, “At Prime Bank, we believe true banking goes beyond transactions; it stands beside people when they are most vulnerable. Through this project, we are investing in resilience, dignity, and hope. This partnership reflects our commitment to building a future where no community is left behind in the face of climate change.”
On behalf of Friendship, Runa Khan stated, “When a family loses land to erosion, they lose more than a home; they lose their ability to hope and plan, for their dignity is wrenched away from them. ‘Safe Shores’ is about restoring their courage and strength, so communities in Bhatpara can rebuild their lives with safety and opportunity. Friendship is proud to join Prime Bank to back locally led resilience, with women and children at its core, in the face of an unjust climate reality.”
