The Asia-Pacific Rural and Agricultural Credit Association (APRACA) and the Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 29 June 2026 in Dhaka, Bangladesh, reaffirming their shared commitment to advancing sustainable rural development, financial inclusion, and regional cooperation across Asia and the Pacific.

The MoU establishes a strategic framework for collaboration between the two regional organizations in promoting inclusive rural transformation through knowledge exchange, policy dialogue, capacity building, research, and joint initiatives. By leveraging their respective expertise and extensive regional networks, APRACA and CIRDAP aim to support member countries in addressing emerging challenges and opportunities in rural development, agricultural finance, and inclusive economic growth.

The partnership will facilitate closer cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including:

• Capacity building and training programmes;
• Joint research, publications, and knowledge-sharing initiatives;
• Regional conferences, seminars, and policy dialogues;
• Promotion of innovative approaches to rural finance, digital transformation, and sustainable agriculture;
• Strengthening institutional cooperation among member countries and partner organizations.

The signing of the MoU marks an important milestone in strengthening regional collaboration and reflects the shared vision of  APRACA and CIRDAP to foster inclusive, resilient, and sustainable rural development across Asia and the Pacific. Through this partnership, both organizations will work together to enhance institutional capacities, promote innovative solutions, and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to poverty reduction, food security, financial inclusion, and sustainable rural livelihoods.

APRACA looks forward to working closely with CIRDAP in implementing collaborative programmes and initiatives that will generate meaningful impacts for member institutions and rural communities throughout the Asia-Pacific region.