Dutch Ambassador Joris Van Bommel has underscored the potential for strengthened collaboration between the Netherlands and Bangladesh to broaden access to safe drinking water, particularly for communities most at risk from climate change.

Emphasizing the role of public-private partnerships, the Ambassador shared his insights during a visit to the Max Foundation’s "Building Water Business" initiative in Dudholmou, Bakerganj, Barishal, on Thursday.

According to an official press release, the Ambassador’s tour of the facility was intended to evaluate how smart, low-maintenance piped water infrastructure, integrated with digital payment systems, fosters operational efficiency, financial sustainability, and transparent revenue collection in climate-stressed regions.

During his address to the media, Van Bommel highlighted the shared geographical heritage of both nations, noting that their identities are deeply rooted in deltas, rivers, and coastal proximity.

"Water, delta, sea and rivers provide a strong basis for cooperation between the Netherlands and Bangladesh," he stated, while affirming that this partnership must prioritize universal access to potable water.

The Ambassador explained that his visit, conducted alongside representatives from the Max Foundation and Max Social Enterprise, sought to identify effective ways to resolve "last mile" connectivity challenges, ensuring that households receive water directly through home taps.

He emphasized that such infrastructure is vital not only for health outcomes but for social equity, as it significantly alleviates the physical burden on women and girls who frequently travel long distances to fetch water.

Reflecting on the Barishal model, he noted that the initiative proves sustainable water services are achievable when the government, the private sector, and local communities align.

"We sincerely believe that that's a sustainable solution to make sure that every household in Bangladesh do get access to water in the house, but also that it's affordable in a public-private partnership perspective way," the Ambassador added.

Expressing his approval of the ongoing collaboration between Dutch entities and Bangladeshi stakeholders, Van Bommel noted, "We can make a difference if we work together with companies and with communities."

Max Foundation Founder and Director Joke Le Poole recalled that the organization launched its mission over twenty years ago, initially centering on water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs to reduce child mortality.

She explained that Bangladesh was selected due to its high population density and urgent needs, starting with the installation of water wells in Barishal—many of which remain operational 15 to 20 years later.

However, she observed a shift in consumer demand as economic conditions improved, noting that families now prioritize home-based piped water and are willing to invest in these services for the resulting health benefits.

Dr. ATM Tariqul Islam, Country Director of the Max Foundation for Bangladesh and Nepal, detailed that the organization, in conjunction with Max Social Enterprise, has pioneered a business-oriented model for piped water in the Barishal and Patuakhali regions.

Moving away from traditional aid-dependent structures, he explained, "The model is designed to operate through a Market Based Solution to water supply," where users pay monthly fees for their consumption.

The program has successfully established approximately 100 water grids and is currently integrating solar power and automation to lower overhead costs and ensure long-term viability.

Dr. Tariqul further highlighted that the transition to piped water has led to a measurable decline in skin and gastrointestinal illnesses, while simultaneously providing women with easier access to household sanitation and washing facilities.

The field visit was attended by Dutch Embassy First Secretary for Water and Climate Klaassen Inge, Senior Financial Advisor Aminul Islam, and Max Social Enterprise Managing Director Yameen Farook.