Advancement of women and children should be emphasised in all projects aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, secretaries to four ministries told a workshop yesterday.

They also recommended that the ministries like finance and planning cooperate with the women and children affairs ministry in this regard.

The workshop was organised by the women and children affairs ministry at the capital's Biam Foundation over formulating an action plan to achieve SDGs involving these two groups.

Nasima Begum, secretary to the woman and children affairs ministry, said most SDGs were related to women and children, so this ministry needed support from other ministries.

She also said, “The goals can be achieved within 2030 if we can ensure development of women and children, as together they form the largest part of the population."

Dr Shamsul Alam, senior secretary and member of Planning Commission, said Bangladesh could be a “star performer” in achieving SDGs by taking timely initiatives.

The government has already taken some early initiatives, said Begum Shamsun Nahar, acting secretary at the expatriates' welfare and overseas employment ministry.

Last year the United Nations set 17 goals called Sustainable Development Goals for the developing countries, to be achieved within 2030. Major goals include an end to poverty, zero hunger, gender equality, climate action, good health, quality education, and reduced inequalities.