The Microcredit Regulatory Authority (MRA) hosted a welcome event for Dr Alfred Hannig, chief executive officer of the Alliance for Financial Inclusion (AFI), on Monday at its Multipurpose Hall in Agargaon, Dhaka.
The visit marked a milestone in MRA’s international engagement efforts, reflecting its growing role in promoting inclusive finance beyond Bangladesh.
Dr Hannig was accompanied by Ms Nangsi Dema, AFI’s regional manager for Asia, while the session was presided over by MRA’s Executive Vice Chairman, Professor Dr Mohammad Helal Uddin.
A documentary showcasing MRA’s achievements in expanding financial inclusion in Bangladesh was presented, highlighting key regulatory milestones, digital transformation initiatives, and outreach to marginalised communities.
This was followed by a presentation detailing MRA’s active participation in AFI’s global thematic working groups, including Data and Measurement (FID Working Group), Client Protection and Gender Inclusion (CEMC and GIF), Digital and Green Finance (DFS and IGF), Proportional Regulation, and Strategy and Innovation (FISPLG).
In his remarks, Dr Hannig praised MRA’s leadership in inclusive finance, noting that, “The Microcredit Regulatory Authority is committed to innovation and balanced supervision in the microfinance sector. Its meaningful reforms in digital finance, customer protection, and green financial services have contributed significantly not only in Bangladesh but also across AFI’s global platforms.”
Professor Dr Helal Uddin emphasised the long-standing partnership between MRA and AFI, calling it “a story of mutual growth.”
He said, “For over 12 years, we have collaborated to promote smart and balanced regulation in the microfinance sector. We are proud to be part of AFI’s working groups like DFS, CEMC, GIF, IGF, and FISPLG, which help us both contribute to and benefit from global best practices.”
The event concluded with renewed commitment to strengthening regulatory cooperation, embracing digital innovation, and expanding inclusive finance with a pledge to leave no one behind.
Reaffirming its role as a regional leader in financial inclusion, MRA expressed deep appreciation to AFI for continued partnership in building a resilient, customer-centric, and inclusive financial ecosystem.