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The Netherlands will send a trade mission to Bangladesh next year to extend support in the agriculture sector and strengthen trade relations between the two countries.
Foreign Trade and Development Minister of the Netherlands Tom De Brujin made the announcement on Wednesday during a meeting with Agriculture Minister Md Abdur Razzaque at The Hague.
The Dutch minister said trade ties between the two countries will be strengthened involving private sector in food, water and energy issues and the embassies of the two countries will take necessary steps in this regard.
Abdur Razzque requested the Dutch minister to increase the number of scholarships for Bangladeshi students seeking higher studies in the Netherlands in agricultural.
Besides, the minister wanted Dutch assistance to retain the trade privileges for Bangladesh in exporting goods to EU countries even after its graduation to a middle-income country.
"Bangladesh needs Netherlands' knowledge, technology, innovation and solution in agriculture and we want the support on win-win basis," he said.
Both the ministers expressed hope over advancing the agricultural ties between the two countries to the next level within a year and a half at the meeting.
Later Abdur Razzaque met Vice Minister of Agricultural and Natural Resource Ministry of Netherlands Groet.
Abdur Razzaque sought Dutch support for establishing supply chain, agricultural mechanization and to build modern packaging houses in Bangladesh.
The minister also invited Dutch private sectors to build agro innovation labs and join in building high quality storage facilities in Bangladesh for speeding up the mechanization process.
www.tbsnews.net
Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has thanked the European Union (EU) especially for its recent move to remove the 7.4 per cent import-share threshold from the GSP-plus vulnerability criteria, reports UNB.
The step will pave the way for Bangladesh to apply for GSP-plus benefits as it graduates from the club of least developed countries, BGMEA president Faruque Hassan said.
He also hoped that the support and cooperation of the EU to Bangladesh for the apparel industry will continue in the coming days. Bangladesh ambassador to Belgium Mahbub Hassan Saleh hosted a reception in honour of the BGMEA president at his residence in Brussels.
The reception was also attended by the representatives of the department of Trade and Employment of the EU.
BGMEA vice-president Miran Ali, director Abdullah Hil Rakib, Shasha Denims managing director Shams Mahmud and high officials of the Bangladesh Embassy joined the programme.
BGMEA leaders thanked the Bangladesh Embassy for its proactive role in promoting the interests of the country in the EU.
en.prothomalo.com
Foreign Trade and Development Minister of the Netherlands Tom De Brujin made the announcement on Wednesday during a meeting with Agriculture Minister Md Abdur Razzaque at The Hague.
The Dutch minister said trade ties between the two countries will be strengthened involving private sector in food, water and energy issues and the embassies of the two countries will take necessary steps in this regard.
Abdur Razzque requested the Dutch minister to increase the number of scholarships for Bangladeshi students seeking higher studies in the Netherlands in agricultural.
Besides, the minister wanted Dutch assistance to retain the trade privileges for Bangladesh in exporting goods to EU countries even after its graduation to a middle-income country.
"Bangladesh needs Netherlands' knowledge, technology, innovation and solution in agriculture and we want the support on win-win basis," he said.
Both the ministers expressed hope over advancing the agricultural ties between the two countries to the next level within a year and a half at the meeting.
Later Abdur Razzaque met Vice Minister of Agricultural and Natural Resource Ministry of Netherlands Groet.
Abdur Razzaque sought Dutch support for establishing supply chain, agricultural mechanization and to build modern packaging houses in Bangladesh.
The minister also invited Dutch private sectors to build agro innovation labs and join in building high quality storage facilities in Bangladesh for speeding up the mechanization process.
Netherlands to send trade mission to Bangladesh next year
The Netherlands will send a trade mission to Bangladesh next year to extend support in the agriculture sector and strengthen trade relations between the two countries. Foreign Trade and Development Minister of the Netherlands Tom De Brujin made the announcement on Wednesday during a meeting with...
Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has thanked the European Union (EU) especially for its recent move to remove the 7.4 per cent import-share threshold from the GSP-plus vulnerability criteria, reports UNB.
The step will pave the way for Bangladesh to apply for GSP-plus benefits as it graduates from the club of least developed countries, BGMEA president Faruque Hassan said.
He also hoped that the support and cooperation of the EU to Bangladesh for the apparel industry will continue in the coming days. Bangladesh ambassador to Belgium Mahbub Hassan Saleh hosted a reception in honour of the BGMEA president at his residence in Brussels.
The reception was also attended by the representatives of the department of Trade and Employment of the EU.
BGMEA vice-president Miran Ali, director Abdullah Hil Rakib, Shasha Denims managing director Shams Mahmud and high officials of the Bangladesh Embassy joined the programme.
BGMEA leaders thanked the Bangladesh Embassy for its proactive role in promoting the interests of the country in the EU.
BGMEA thanks EU for removing 7.4 per cent import-share threshold
Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has thanked the European Union (EU) especially for its recent move to remove the 7.4 per cent import-share threshold from the GSP-plus vulnerability criteria.
en.prothomalo.com
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The Bangladesh-Vietnam Chambers of Commerce and Industry (BVCCI) and Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) should be the shortest bridges to connect the business communities of the two countries, Vietnamese Ambassador in Bangladesh Pham Viet Chien said today.
He also hoped the two chambers can contribute more and more to assisting the businesses of the two countries and Vietnamese companies present in Bangladesh.
The chambers may also step forward to represent the business communities to propose to the Bangladesh government on how to facilitate the trade and investment relations between the two nations, he said.
He spoke at the Vietnam-Bangladesh Business Meeting organised by the Vietnam embassy in Dhaka.
The envoy encouraged the Vietnamese to do business with Bangladesh.
He also urged the Bangladeshi businesses and companies to be more active to learn about Vietnam market to get close and communicate with Vietnamese businesses for partnership and business.
Vietnam and Bangladesh enjoy an excellent traditional friendship, he said.
"Our two countries have many historical similarities, the struggle for national independence, defense and development. Both countries have been transforming into dynamic emerging economies in the world nonow.
Similar to Bangladesh, Vietnam managed to register a positive GDP growth of the gross domestic product at 2.94 per cent in 2020, despite negative impacts of Covid-19 pandemic, the envoy said.
Despite the Covid-19 pandemic in the last two years, trade and economic cooperation between Vietnam and Bangladesh have been stable and growing even stronger than before the pandemic, he said.
The bilateral trade turnover of the first nine months of 2021 reached $981 million, around 80 per cent higher than last year, he said.
"It is the highest two-way trade value ever. 2021 is also expected to be the first year that our trade value passed $1 billion."
"The Embassy of Viet Nam in Bangladesh, and myself, are always willing to listen to the expectations of business communities, and will try our best to assist and create more favourable conditions for the two countries' business communities."
"Because more fruitful business deals between the two countries' companies means our bilateral relations getting stronger and deeper, contributing to the development of our two countries," Chien said.
Vietnam always welcomes Bangladesh to come to do business and cooperate for mutual interests.
"You can see that through these Vietnamese businesses joining the meeting today. They are here and have been ready to work with you directly and effectively."
The ambassador shared his thoughts during a speech at the business meeting.
At the end of his speech, he introduced nine Vietnamese businesses at the meeting.
They were: Do Van Trong, chairman of board of directors of SongHong Group; Pham Dinh Luan, director of the Asia Pacific Import - Export Joint Stock Company; Nguyen Trung Kien, director of the TKD Joint Stock Company; Tran Dinh Thanh, director of Son Ha Mineral Joint Stock Company; Le Thai Hai, deputy director of WE Construction Joint Stock Company; Hoang Minh Duc, deputy director of Vieba Vietnam Company; Hoang Thi Minh Anh, head of division of Kangaroo Vietnam; Pham Van Luan, deputy director of Sunrise Maritime Service Joint Stock Company; Nguyen Ha Thu, chairwoman of Vieba Co Ltd Bangladesh.
www.thedailystar.net
Industrial entrepreneurs of Penang in Malaysia have expressed interest in recruiting engineers from Bangladesh.
The matter came up in the meetings of Bangladesh High Commissioner to Malaysia Md Golam Sarwar with two major business organisations -- Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce (PCCC) and Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) in Penang.
Leaders of the business organisations also expressed their interest in recruiting general employees from Bangladesh.
Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce (PCCC) President Dato' Seri Hong Yeam Wah, in a meeting, said the state of Penang is mainly based on the electric and electronics sectors.
Though the sectors have expanded rapidly in the post-Covid situation worldwide, there is a risk in achieving the desired target due to shortage of skilled manpower, especially engineers, he said.
Seeking cooperation of Bangladesh High Commission in appointing engineers in Penang, he said that the state government is implementing about 20 mega projects. It is possible to meet the demand of engineers through Bangladeshi engineers in all these projects.
In another meeting, Chairman of FMM Dato Jimmy CK Ong said Bangladeshi workers are hardworking and dedicated.
He also said that there is a shortage of both skilled and unskilled foreign workers in Penang's industrial institutions. They are keen to recruit engineers as well as unskilled workers from Bangladesh, he added.
Welcoming the interests of the two organisations, High Commissioner Golam Sarwar assured of supplying any number of general workers and engineers skilled in all professions as per the demand of Malaysia.
He added that thousands of advanced technical knowledgeable and talented engineers are being produced every year from public universities, private universities, and technical colleges throughout Bangladesh.
He assured the business leaders of the assistance in recruiting qualified and meritorious graduates from the Bangladeshi students studying in different universities of Malaysia.
The high commissioner, during the meetings, called on the business leaders to take the opportunity of investment in implementing the projects of Bangladesh government to build a Digital Bangladesh.
Golam Sarwar said Bangladesh has become one of the best investment destinations in Asia due to its investment-friendly policies and construction of modern infrastructure.
The top leaders of the two business organisations and Bangladesh High Commission Counsellor (Commercial) Md Rajibul Ahsan and Dato Shaik Ismail, honorary consulate of Bangladesh in Penang, were present in the meetings.
www.thedailystar.net
Over the last five decades, Switzerland and Bangladesh have nurtured and grown close in collaboration in many areas, including economic and international cooperation, said Nathalie Chuard, ambassador of Switzerland to Bangladesh. In an exclusive interview with Dhaka Tribune's Imtiaz Ahmed, she discussed bilateral trade and more Swiss investment in Bangladesh
What is the present trade volume between Bangladesh and Switzerland? What is our target to reach bilateral trade within the next five years?
Trade and investment are indeed a crucial part of our bilateral relationship.
Despite constraints brought by the pandemic, our trade volume sustained positive growth last year and stood at CHF 812 million ($890 million.)
This has almost quadrupled since 2010, and we are now well on course to cross the $1 billion mark by the end of this year.
This impressive trajectory, I hope, can give you an idea of what we can achieve together over the next period, and how it can benefit both our countries.
2022 is very significant as we will celebrate the golden jubilee of our bilateral ties.
Over the last five decades, Switzerland and Bangladesh have nurtured and grown close collaboration in many areas, including economic and international cooperation, humanitarian aid, as well as cultural and political exchanges.
The 50-year anniversary gives us therefore an opportunity to reflect and draw inspiration for our future journey together.
We also look forward to working more closely with Bangladesh in promoting multilateral cooperation, especially as Switzerland is a candidate for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2023-2024.
Foreign direct investment (FDI) flow to Bangladesh suffered last year as the coronavirus pandemic hit the world. Do you see more Swiss investment in Bangladesh? How do you evaluate the investment climate in Bangladesh?
Swiss investors have a solid and diversified footprint in this country.
They are active in key economic areas such as construction, food, pharmaceuticals, agro products, logistics, services and energy.
My embassy is regularly in contact with both existing and potential Swiss investors. New investors are slowly but surely growing curious about the Bangladeshi market and the opportunities it offers.
The government has devised several ambitious and crucial plans leading to 2041 and beyond to ensure sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
Attracting foreign direct investments can certainly contribute to achieving these goals.
My country is one of the global leaders for foreign direct investment.
With continued improvement in ease of doing business, legal and economic governance and a level playing field for all competitors, I am confident that Bangladesh will draw increased foreign investments from both new and existing companies – and this is especially important at a time when Bangladesh is about to graduate from the least developed countries status.
Switzerland is producing Covid-19 vaccine to combat the deadly disease. The Swiss government has vaccinated over 80% of its population until now. Bangladesh has also vaccinated 20% of its total population (including first dose). Can Switzerland transfer the technology of producing vaccines to Bangladesh?
Switzerland does not have any homegrown Covid-19 vaccine, but with our forte for innovation and research, the Swiss pharma and biotech industries play a critical role on the global stage to fight the pandemic.
You may be surprised to know that a Swiss biotech firm manufactures in Switzerland a large percentage of Moderna doses supplied to Europe.
My country promotes fair global access to vaccines, tests and medications in order to fight the pandemic over the long term.
In this regard, our government is actively involved in the COVAX initiative for fair distribution of covid-19 vaccines.
Moreover, timely and transparent exchange of epidemiological and clinical data is of great importance.
This is why Switzerland made a biological safety laboratory available to the WHO as a repository for covid-19 or other pathogens, and has helped to set up an international system for the voluntary exchange of new pathogens.
Since the beginning of this crisis, Switzerland has also firmly stood by Bangladesh and has, so far, earmarked over Tk160 crore to implement Covid-19 response initiatives.
Our engagement with our partners, and in close cooperation with the Bangladesh government, has helped local communities to efficiently respond to the pandemic and reinforce their resilience.
I am proud that this support has reached the most vulnerable and remote communities.
The export basket of Bangladesh is heavily dependent on readymade garments. Can Switzerland help Bangladesh diversify its export basket?
We have a diversified and export-oriented economy, with a very lively and agile ecosystem of small and medium enterprises.
We are ready to share our experience with Bangladesh. Innovation, research & development and competitiveness are intrinsic characteristics of Swiss industries across the board.
Therefore, I see great potential in forging further collaboration between the private sectors of our two countries on key areas such as innovation, hi-tech and cleantech.
Over the last 50 years, Switzerland has invested over $1 billion in development cooperation in this country, with a particular focus on skills and private sector development.
For example, we were one of the first countries to support skills training in the leather industry.
Now, this is a burgeoning export industry, and leading manufacturers of this promising sector still appreciate this crucial support provided in the past.
We currently help small and medium enterprises to improve their capacity and link them up with market actors. In many cases, this allows them to expand their footprint within and beyond the border.
Developing countries, including Bangladesh, are becoming victims of climate change. How can Switzerland and Bangladesh work together on climate change issues? Do you think developed countries compensate the developing countries?
Bangladesh is extremely vulnerable to climate change, with more violent weather, frequent flooding events and salt water damaging crops.
This has a real impact on livelihoods. I was in the Chittagong Hill Tracts in October and saw first-hand there how the indigenous communities are facing the impacts of climate change. Their lives are simply getting so much harder.
As an Alpine country, Switzerland is also facing numerous challenges and our glaciers can disappear by 2100 if the global temperature continues to rise by 2 degrees Celsius or beyond.
This is a global challenge that has to be addressed collectively. My country has worked hard on the global stage for robust rules, increasing our ambitions and effective and fair climate financing. We owe that to the next generations.
As a long-standing development partner, Switzerland has supported Bangladesh in disaster risk reduction and climate resilience for many years.
We will soon launch our new country program for 2022-2025 and addressing the impact of climate change will be a crucial part of our engagement.
What is the number of Bangladeshis living in your country and how do you evaluate their contribution to your country?
The size of the Bangladeshi diaspora in Switzerland is relatively modest.
Over 1,500 Bangladeshis currently live in my country, and many of them are engaged in the hospitality industry.
They have a reputation of being hardworking and they positively contribute to the Swiss society and economy. Many also financially support their families and, thus, contribute to the local economy here.
During my recent trip home, I met some Bangladeshi residing in Switzerland for a long time and I was impressed by their commitment to give back to their communities and make our world a better place.
www.dhakatribune.com
He also hoped the two chambers can contribute more and more to assisting the businesses of the two countries and Vietnamese companies present in Bangladesh.
The chambers may also step forward to represent the business communities to propose to the Bangladesh government on how to facilitate the trade and investment relations between the two nations, he said.
He spoke at the Vietnam-Bangladesh Business Meeting organised by the Vietnam embassy in Dhaka.
The envoy encouraged the Vietnamese to do business with Bangladesh.
He also urged the Bangladeshi businesses and companies to be more active to learn about Vietnam market to get close and communicate with Vietnamese businesses for partnership and business.
Vietnam and Bangladesh enjoy an excellent traditional friendship, he said.
"Our two countries have many historical similarities, the struggle for national independence, defense and development. Both countries have been transforming into dynamic emerging economies in the world nonow.
Similar to Bangladesh, Vietnam managed to register a positive GDP growth of the gross domestic product at 2.94 per cent in 2020, despite negative impacts of Covid-19 pandemic, the envoy said.
Despite the Covid-19 pandemic in the last two years, trade and economic cooperation between Vietnam and Bangladesh have been stable and growing even stronger than before the pandemic, he said.
The bilateral trade turnover of the first nine months of 2021 reached $981 million, around 80 per cent higher than last year, he said.
"It is the highest two-way trade value ever. 2021 is also expected to be the first year that our trade value passed $1 billion."
"The Embassy of Viet Nam in Bangladesh, and myself, are always willing to listen to the expectations of business communities, and will try our best to assist and create more favourable conditions for the two countries' business communities."
"Because more fruitful business deals between the two countries' companies means our bilateral relations getting stronger and deeper, contributing to the development of our two countries," Chien said.
Vietnam always welcomes Bangladesh to come to do business and cooperate for mutual interests.
"You can see that through these Vietnamese businesses joining the meeting today. They are here and have been ready to work with you directly and effectively."
The ambassador shared his thoughts during a speech at the business meeting.
At the end of his speech, he introduced nine Vietnamese businesses at the meeting.
They were: Do Van Trong, chairman of board of directors of SongHong Group; Pham Dinh Luan, director of the Asia Pacific Import - Export Joint Stock Company; Nguyen Trung Kien, director of the TKD Joint Stock Company; Tran Dinh Thanh, director of Son Ha Mineral Joint Stock Company; Le Thai Hai, deputy director of WE Construction Joint Stock Company; Hoang Minh Duc, deputy director of Vieba Vietnam Company; Hoang Thi Minh Anh, head of division of Kangaroo Vietnam; Pham Van Luan, deputy director of Sunrise Maritime Service Joint Stock Company; Nguyen Ha Thu, chairwoman of Vieba Co Ltd Bangladesh.
Vietnamese envoy seeks stronger trade ties with Bangladesh
The Bangladesh-Vietnam Chambers of Commerce and Industry (BVCCI) and Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) should be the shortest bridges to connect the business communities of the two countries, Vietnamese Ambassador in Bangladesh Pham Viet Chien said today.
Industrial entrepreneurs of Penang in Malaysia have expressed interest in recruiting engineers from Bangladesh.
The matter came up in the meetings of Bangladesh High Commissioner to Malaysia Md Golam Sarwar with two major business organisations -- Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce (PCCC) and Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) in Penang.
Leaders of the business organisations also expressed their interest in recruiting general employees from Bangladesh.
Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce (PCCC) President Dato' Seri Hong Yeam Wah, in a meeting, said the state of Penang is mainly based on the electric and electronics sectors.
Though the sectors have expanded rapidly in the post-Covid situation worldwide, there is a risk in achieving the desired target due to shortage of skilled manpower, especially engineers, he said.
Seeking cooperation of Bangladesh High Commission in appointing engineers in Penang, he said that the state government is implementing about 20 mega projects. It is possible to meet the demand of engineers through Bangladeshi engineers in all these projects.
In another meeting, Chairman of FMM Dato Jimmy CK Ong said Bangladeshi workers are hardworking and dedicated.
He also said that there is a shortage of both skilled and unskilled foreign workers in Penang's industrial institutions. They are keen to recruit engineers as well as unskilled workers from Bangladesh, he added.
Welcoming the interests of the two organisations, High Commissioner Golam Sarwar assured of supplying any number of general workers and engineers skilled in all professions as per the demand of Malaysia.
He added that thousands of advanced technical knowledgeable and talented engineers are being produced every year from public universities, private universities, and technical colleges throughout Bangladesh.
He assured the business leaders of the assistance in recruiting qualified and meritorious graduates from the Bangladeshi students studying in different universities of Malaysia.
The high commissioner, during the meetings, called on the business leaders to take the opportunity of investment in implementing the projects of Bangladesh government to build a Digital Bangladesh.
Golam Sarwar said Bangladesh has become one of the best investment destinations in Asia due to its investment-friendly policies and construction of modern infrastructure.
The top leaders of the two business organisations and Bangladesh High Commission Counsellor (Commercial) Md Rajibul Ahsan and Dato Shaik Ismail, honorary consulate of Bangladesh in Penang, were present in the meetings.
Malaysian entrepreneurs keen on recruiting engineers from Bangladesh
Industrial entrepreneurs of Penang in Malaysia have expressed interest in recruiting engineers from Bangladesh.
Over the last five decades, Switzerland and Bangladesh have nurtured and grown close in collaboration in many areas, including economic and international cooperation, said Nathalie Chuard, ambassador of Switzerland to Bangladesh. In an exclusive interview with Dhaka Tribune's Imtiaz Ahmed, she discussed bilateral trade and more Swiss investment in Bangladesh
What is the present trade volume between Bangladesh and Switzerland? What is our target to reach bilateral trade within the next five years?
Trade and investment are indeed a crucial part of our bilateral relationship.
Despite constraints brought by the pandemic, our trade volume sustained positive growth last year and stood at CHF 812 million ($890 million.)
This has almost quadrupled since 2010, and we are now well on course to cross the $1 billion mark by the end of this year.
This impressive trajectory, I hope, can give you an idea of what we can achieve together over the next period, and how it can benefit both our countries.
2022 is very significant as we will celebrate the golden jubilee of our bilateral ties.
Over the last five decades, Switzerland and Bangladesh have nurtured and grown close collaboration in many areas, including economic and international cooperation, humanitarian aid, as well as cultural and political exchanges.
The 50-year anniversary gives us therefore an opportunity to reflect and draw inspiration for our future journey together.
We also look forward to working more closely with Bangladesh in promoting multilateral cooperation, especially as Switzerland is a candidate for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2023-2024.
Foreign direct investment (FDI) flow to Bangladesh suffered last year as the coronavirus pandemic hit the world. Do you see more Swiss investment in Bangladesh? How do you evaluate the investment climate in Bangladesh?
Swiss investors have a solid and diversified footprint in this country.
They are active in key economic areas such as construction, food, pharmaceuticals, agro products, logistics, services and energy.
My embassy is regularly in contact with both existing and potential Swiss investors. New investors are slowly but surely growing curious about the Bangladeshi market and the opportunities it offers.
The government has devised several ambitious and crucial plans leading to 2041 and beyond to ensure sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
Attracting foreign direct investments can certainly contribute to achieving these goals.
My country is one of the global leaders for foreign direct investment.
With continued improvement in ease of doing business, legal and economic governance and a level playing field for all competitors, I am confident that Bangladesh will draw increased foreign investments from both new and existing companies – and this is especially important at a time when Bangladesh is about to graduate from the least developed countries status.
Switzerland is producing Covid-19 vaccine to combat the deadly disease. The Swiss government has vaccinated over 80% of its population until now. Bangladesh has also vaccinated 20% of its total population (including first dose). Can Switzerland transfer the technology of producing vaccines to Bangladesh?
Switzerland does not have any homegrown Covid-19 vaccine, but with our forte for innovation and research, the Swiss pharma and biotech industries play a critical role on the global stage to fight the pandemic.
You may be surprised to know that a Swiss biotech firm manufactures in Switzerland a large percentage of Moderna doses supplied to Europe.
My country promotes fair global access to vaccines, tests and medications in order to fight the pandemic over the long term.
In this regard, our government is actively involved in the COVAX initiative for fair distribution of covid-19 vaccines.
Moreover, timely and transparent exchange of epidemiological and clinical data is of great importance.
This is why Switzerland made a biological safety laboratory available to the WHO as a repository for covid-19 or other pathogens, and has helped to set up an international system for the voluntary exchange of new pathogens.
Since the beginning of this crisis, Switzerland has also firmly stood by Bangladesh and has, so far, earmarked over Tk160 crore to implement Covid-19 response initiatives.
Our engagement with our partners, and in close cooperation with the Bangladesh government, has helped local communities to efficiently respond to the pandemic and reinforce their resilience.
I am proud that this support has reached the most vulnerable and remote communities.
The export basket of Bangladesh is heavily dependent on readymade garments. Can Switzerland help Bangladesh diversify its export basket?
We have a diversified and export-oriented economy, with a very lively and agile ecosystem of small and medium enterprises.
We are ready to share our experience with Bangladesh. Innovation, research & development and competitiveness are intrinsic characteristics of Swiss industries across the board.
Therefore, I see great potential in forging further collaboration between the private sectors of our two countries on key areas such as innovation, hi-tech and cleantech.
Over the last 50 years, Switzerland has invested over $1 billion in development cooperation in this country, with a particular focus on skills and private sector development.
For example, we were one of the first countries to support skills training in the leather industry.
Now, this is a burgeoning export industry, and leading manufacturers of this promising sector still appreciate this crucial support provided in the past.
We currently help small and medium enterprises to improve their capacity and link them up with market actors. In many cases, this allows them to expand their footprint within and beyond the border.
Developing countries, including Bangladesh, are becoming victims of climate change. How can Switzerland and Bangladesh work together on climate change issues? Do you think developed countries compensate the developing countries?
Bangladesh is extremely vulnerable to climate change, with more violent weather, frequent flooding events and salt water damaging crops.
This has a real impact on livelihoods. I was in the Chittagong Hill Tracts in October and saw first-hand there how the indigenous communities are facing the impacts of climate change. Their lives are simply getting so much harder.
As an Alpine country, Switzerland is also facing numerous challenges and our glaciers can disappear by 2100 if the global temperature continues to rise by 2 degrees Celsius or beyond.
This is a global challenge that has to be addressed collectively. My country has worked hard on the global stage for robust rules, increasing our ambitions and effective and fair climate financing. We owe that to the next generations.
As a long-standing development partner, Switzerland has supported Bangladesh in disaster risk reduction and climate resilience for many years.
We will soon launch our new country program for 2022-2025 and addressing the impact of climate change will be a crucial part of our engagement.
What is the number of Bangladeshis living in your country and how do you evaluate their contribution to your country?
The size of the Bangladeshi diaspora in Switzerland is relatively modest.
Over 1,500 Bangladeshis currently live in my country, and many of them are engaged in the hospitality industry.
They have a reputation of being hardworking and they positively contribute to the Swiss society and economy. Many also financially support their families and, thus, contribute to the local economy here.
During my recent trip home, I met some Bangladeshi residing in Switzerland for a long time and I was impressed by their commitment to give back to their communities and make our world a better place.
'Swiss investors have a solid and diversified footprint in Bangladesh'
Over the last five decades, Switzerland and Bangladesh have nurtured and grown close in collaboration in many areas, including economic and international cooperation, said Nathalie Chuard, ambassador of Switzerland to Bangladesh. In an exclusive interview with Dhaka Tribune's Imtiaz Ahmed, she...
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Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has sought the support of UK MPs to retain access to the British market after graduating from post-least developed country (LDC) status.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan met with Rushanara Ali MP and Rupa Huq MP, members of the Parliament of the United Kingdom, in London on Saturday (13 November). They had a discussion on various issues including cooperation between the UK and Bangladesh regarding graduation from LDC, possible changes in the tariff regime, and how Bangladesh could retain its access to the UK market in the post-LDC era, said a press release.
He requested Rushanara Ali MP and Rupa Huq MP to extend their support with regard to the continuation of duty-benefit for Bangladesh after the graduation from LDC status.
British politicians of Bangladeshi origins were also present at the meeting.
During the meeting, Faruque Hassan stressed the need for engagement of non-resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) in the development of Bangladesh.
He said NRBs have the immense potential to make more contributions to accelerating Bangladesh's development with their skills, technical expertise, knowledge and investment, the press release added.
A good number of NRBs living in the UK are well-established businessmen, while many have influential positions in governments as politicians and members of parliaments. Besides, many Bangladeshis are academicians, researchers, high government officials and holding other prestigious positions. They can play a significant role in shaping the financial, social and economic conditions of the country, the BGMEA President added.
Faruque Hassan sought cooperation of the two British MPs in encouraging Bangladeshis living in the UK to invest in different potential sectors of Bangladesh including high value-added and non-cotton textiles along with others.
He also apprised the British MPs about the unprecedented strides made by Bangladesh's RMG industry over the years in safety, sustainability and social compliance, which have earned the sector global recognitions.
www.tbsnews.net
The hi-tech park authority of Bangladesh and Uzbekistan will work together for the development of Information Technology (IT), hi-tech manufacturing, policy and development, research and innovation in both countries, said Zunaid Ahmed Palak, state minister for Information and Communication Technology.
The two countries will also work to advance the entrepreneurial sector of both countries, Palak added.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed regarding this on Saturday at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre, read a press release.
The agreement was signed by Syed Zahurul Islam, director (Technical), Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority and Ibragimov Farkhod Zairovic, executive director, IT Park, Uzbekistan.
Zunaid Ahmed Palak was present on the occasion as the chief guest.
He said the agreement will facilitate the startups of both countries to enter the international market easily. Under the agreement, training and mentoring will be provided to the startups of both countries, he further stated.
Capacity building programmes on machine learning, cyber security, artificial intelligence, blockchain will also be arranged for entrepreneurs and those involved with the industry of both Bangladesh and Uzbekistan, the minister added.
Earlier in September, a delegation team from Bangladesh led by Salman F Rahman, private industry and investment adviser to the prime minister and Zuniad Ahmed Palak met Alimjan Imarav, digital technology adviser to the prime minister of Uzbekistan and Ibrokhim Yu Abdurakhmonov, minister of innovative development of Uzbekistan.
During that visit, Uzbekistan expressed interest in taking the "IT-Enabled" service from Bangladesh and Bangladesh showed interest in the research and development sector of Uzbekistan.
www.tbsnews.net
Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on Sunday said they want to see an open, free, peaceful and inclusive Indian Ocean instead of any single country’s dominance noting that many have different types of interests towards the Indian Ocean.
“Indian Ocean is a huge issue. We don’t want to see any unilateral dominance in the Indian Ocean,” he told reporters at a media briefing at his ministry.
Bangladesh will host the 21st Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Council of Ministers’ (COM) meeting on November 17 as it takes up the IORA chairmanship for the first time in 24 years.
"Indo-Pacific Vision" will also come up for discussion.
IORA has six priority and two focus areas identified on the basis to promote sustained growth and balanced development in the Indian Ocean Region.
These are maritime safety and security, trade and investment facilitation, fisheries management, disaster risk management, tourism and cultural exchanges, academic, science and technology cooperation, blue economy, women's economic empowerment.
“We’ll try to focus on those issues,” Dr Momen said.
The 23rd Committee of Senior Officials (CSO) and its related meetings will be held on November 15-16 in a hybrid format (in-person & virtual).
The foreign minister said this is a great moment for Bangladesh and 12 ministers from 11 countries (two ministers from Tanzania) will be joining the IORA COM in person.
“Indian Ocean is very important for trading. It’s also dangerous with some associated risks like cyclones, typhoons, tidal surges. So, it’s an essential meeting,” he added.
Dr Momen also said they are looking at the future through the ocean as there are many things to achieve together through partnership and dialogue.
Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen said through the IORA event, Bangladesh has got an opportunity to demonstrate that Bangladesh has been able to bring the Covid situation under control.
“It’s a testimony to the external world that Covid-19 is under control in Bangladesh and we’re getting back to normalcy,” he observed.
The foreign secretary mentioned Bangladesh will also host the Peace Conference on December 4-6 in person, keeping the option open for virtual joining too.
Rear Admiral (Retd) Md Khurshed Alam, secretary of Maritime Affairs Unit (MAU) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said apart from the ministers, 82 representatives from member states will participate in it in person while many will join virtually.
The issues which will be discussed on November 15-16 and the decisions to be taken will be approved at the ministerial meeting.
He also said appointment of a secretary general of the IORA will also get approved at the ministerial meeting on November 17.
The secretary general is appointed by the Council of Ministers (COM) for a term of three years which is renewable for one additional term, from among the candidates nominated by the member states on the basis of qualification, experience and suitability as laid down in the staff regulations of the IORA Secretariat.
Khurshed Alam further said they want to take some programmes to share Bangladesh’s expertise with other countries and learn from other member States too. “We’ll show them practically our expertise in some areas like aquaculture and disaster management.”
He said the new IORA Action Plan 2022-27 will hopefully be approved this time, too.
Dr Momen said it is good news that many are looking at Bangladesh and Bangladesh is already a model in disaster management. “Partnership is more important than ever after we face Covid-19.”
A dozen of ministers representing IORA countries, including Minister for South Asia, the United Nations and the Commonwealth at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon will be visiting Bangladesh to attend the IORA event.
The IORA ministers will also meet Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during their stay in Dhaka. “We’re working on that,” said the foreign minister.
British Minister Tariq Ahmad will deliver a keynote speech at a program titled "Bangladesh-UK: Partners in Progress" on Monday afternoon.
The talks will be held at the Foreign Service Academy and Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen will chair the event.
The British minister will also have a meeting with Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen during his stay in Dhaka, said an official.
Foreign ministers of Sri Lanka, Union of Comoros, Indonesia, South Africa and a Minister of Tanzania will also visit Bangladesh.
US Deputy Assistant Secretary Kelly Keiderling will also arrive on Tuesday, said an official, mentioning that the United States is an observer at the IORA.
Keiderling is the South and Central Asian Affairs Bureau Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
The Chairmanship of Bangladesh is to run from 2021-2023, with the new vice-chair, the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates now taking the position of the past chair.
The forthcoming ministers' meeting will be preceded by the 23rd CSO meeting taking stock of the association's progress, and to endorse the next IORA’s Action Plan (2022-2027).
Meanwhile, a Strategic Dialogue on the Impact of Covid-19 and perspectives of economic recovery in the Indian Ocean Region will be held on November 17.
Foreign Minister Dr Momen will host dinner in honour of the delegations to be here to attend IORA meetings.
The Indian Ocean Rim Association is an inter-governmental organization that was established on March 7, 1997.
The vision for IORA originated during a visit by late President Nelson Mandela of South Africa to India in 1995.
Promoting sustained growth and balanced development within the Indian Ocean region, IORA strengthens cooperation and dialogue with member states.
They are Australia, Bangladesh, Union of Comoros, French Republic, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, the Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Oman, Seychelles, Singapore, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.
www.dhakatribune.com
United Arab Emirates (UAE) Assistant Minister for Economic and Trade Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) Abdulnasser Alshaali said that a joint business council would facilitate bilateral economic and commercial ties between Bangladesh and the gulf country.
Abdulnasser Alshaali made this remark while meeting Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) President Rizwan Rahman in the capital on Sunday (14 November), reads a press release.
"The establishment of a joint business council would facilitate broader and deeper engagement with both public and private sector stakeholders, especially in emerging sectors of mutual interest," the Assistant Minister said.
"Now is the right time to begin discussions on a closer partnership, especially as we work to overcome the fallout from Covid-19," he added.
The DCCI president said that the UAE could play a vital role in boosting the economic growth of Bangladesh by sharing technical know-how and transferring technology.
"DCCI will provide all the support needed to UAE businesses," he stated.
The Chargé d'Affaires of the UAE Embassy in Dhaka Abdulla Ali AlHmoudi was also present at the meeting.
He said, "The bilateral relationship has historically been based on shared beliefs, mutual respect and meaningful cooperation, with both countries working together to cope with common challenges and supporting each other in the international setting."
www.tbsnews.net
Bangladesh and the United Arab Emirates have joined hands to manufacture Covid-19 vaccine.
The process of co-production in Bangladesh will start soon, according to Economic Relations Division (ERD) officials.
The UAE gave its consent to such a proposal from Bangladesh at the fifth session of the Joint Commission held between representatives of both the countries in Dhaka on Monday. The Gulf nation had first placed an offer to supply vaccine doses produced in the country to Bangladesh.
Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal said, "Both of our governments are keen to make the best of our potential in trade and investment."
The finance minister called upon the Middle Eastern country to invest in power, energy and mineral resources, information and communication technology, education, science and technology, marine environment, agriculture, and health services and health education.
ERD officials said DP World, a Dubai-based company, is investing in setting up Matarbari deep sea port under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) system. The company is also investing in another PPP project to establish an inland container depot in Gazipur's Dhirashram area.
They proposed investing more in such large PPP projects, the officials added.
Moreover, Bangladesh sought the UAE's support for duty- and quota-free access to its market, and the UAE representative assured Bangladesh of cooperation in this regard.
Bangladesh's exports to the UAE increased by 45.7% to $209.95 million year-on-year in the first four months of the current fiscal year, according to the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB). The country's exports to UAE amounted to $144.11 million at the same period in FY21.
The finance minister in the meeting also called upon the UAE to create more employment opportunities for Bangladeshi workers and professionals in the country.
The finance minister said more than half a million Bangladeshi expatriates are providing services in the UAE with reputation and dignity. There are still a lot of opportunities in the country's various sectors, especially for professional, skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled manpower.
ERD officials at the meeting proposed simplifying the recruitment process of Bangladeshi workers in the UAE labour market.
The UAE envoy suggested that the two countries start talks at the ministry level to this end.
Bangladesh's third highest remittances come from the UAE. But workers cannot go there on a work visa. Instead, they first have to go to the country for three months on visit visas. Then, they convert those into work visas and stay there for a certain period as per job contracts.
To get out of this situation, Bangladesh proposed introducing the work visa process directly.
www.tbsnews.net
Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen and his Sri Lankan counterpart Prof Gamini Lakshman Peiris have stressed on strong bilateral relations between their respective countries as the two foreign ministers met at state guest house Padma on Monday (15 November).
Dr Momen congratulated Prof Gamini Lakshman Peiris on his new appointment as the foreign minister of Sri Lanka and thanked him for attending the 21st meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Council of Ministers' (COM) physically despite the global Covid-19 related health concerns, said a press release.
The foreign minister also stated that Bangladesh attaches high importance to its relations with Sri Lanka, which he termed excellent, based on the historical linkages, friendship, and commonalities of views and shared vision of prosperity.
Recalling the state visit of Mahinda Rajapaksa, the prime minister of Sri Lanka to Dhaka on 19 – 20 March 2021 on the occasion of Birth Centenary of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the Golden Jubilee of the Independence of Bangladesh, he noted that it contributed in strengthening the ties of the two countries.
Gamini Lakshman Peiris expressed his happiness for meeting his Bangladeshi counterpart. He recalled the recent meeting of Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on the sidelines of the World Leaders' Summit of CoP-26 and said that the leadership of Sri Lanka highly appreciated the recent economic development of Bangladesh.
Peiris reiterated the importance of close relations between the two neighbours. He particularly stressed on further cooperation in the sectors like trade and commerce, investment, tourism, connectivity, agriculture, fisheries, education, and people to people contact.
The two ministers further emphasised on expeditious conclusion of PTA and enhancement of trade and commerce between the two countries. They underscored to further strengthen air and maritime connectivity for the greater benefit of the two countries, the press release added.
The Sri Lankan foreign minister sought collaboration on the area of e-commerce, involvement in the digital sector through sharing of Bangladesh's expertise.
Dr Momen mentioned of Bangladesh's success in the Pharmaceutical sector and urged his Sri Lankan counterpart to import pharmaceuticals products from Bangladesh.
Both foreign ministers noted the ongoing cooperation under IORA, maritime cooperation, maritime security, blue economy, climate change, prevention of over exploitation of marine resources.
They also pledged to explore the possible collaboration between Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Maritime University of Bangladesh and National Institute of Oceanographic Marine Sciences of Sri Lanka. The meeting ended with a positive note in a cordial atmosphere.
The Sri Lankan Foreign Minister is visiting Dhaka from 15-18 November 2021 and is expected to attend the 21st meeting of the IORA COM which is scheduled to be held on 17 November 2021.
www.tbsnews.net
Chief of Army Staff General S M Shafiuddin Ahmed left Dhaka for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) today on a two-day official visit.
During the visit, the army chief will join a bilateral meeting with army chief of the UAE and discuss on extending mutual cooperation, said an ISPR release.
Besides, General S M Shafiuddin Ahmed will witness the International Dubai Air Show-2021 in Dubai at the invitation of Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces Lt. General Hamad Mohammed Thani Al Rumaithi.
The army chief will return home on 18 November.
Tanzania and Bangladesh are keen to work on agriculture, blue economy and other economic sectors through establishing official contacts.
The matter was discussed at a meeting between the Minister of Livestock and Fisheries Mashimba Mashauri Ndaki, MP, the Minister of Blue Economy and Fisheries of the United Republic of Tanzania, Abdullah Hussein Kombo and Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen, MP at the State Guest House Padma on Monday evening.
The ministers are visiting Dhaka for participating in the 21st Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Council of ministers and related meetings, read a press release.
At the outset of the meeting, the foreign minister said that he was glad to meet with the ministers of the government of Tanzania.
The Tanzanian Blue Economy and Fisheries minister expressed interest to know about the aquaculture, fisheries sectors, shipbuilding industry and horticultural sectors of Bangladesh.
Both sides also highlighted the importance of exchanging business delegations to develop trade and economy. The Foreign minister sought cooperation of the Tanzanian government for the solution of the Rohingya crisis.
Foreign Minister Momen narrated the development march of Bangladesh to the visiting ministers. He mentioned that under the visionary leadership of father of the nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh has attained remarkable socio-economic development.
He thanked the Tanzanian government for supporting Bangladesh Chairship at the Indian Ocean Rim Association.
Dr AK Momen commented that Bangladesh believes in economic growth and prosperity for all, read the statement.
He said that Bangladesh has attained remarkable success in many areas including creative economy for which Unesco has conferred the Unesco-Bangladesh Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman International Prize to Bangladesh.
Foreign Minister lauded Tanzania for their elevation to a middle-income country.
He also added that Bangladesh believes in multilateralism. Dr Momen also mentioned that under the prudent leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh has been able to achieve tremendous success in agriculture and socio-economic areas.
During the meeting both sides agreed to cooperate in different sectors of agriculture including fisheries, livestock, horticulture and aquaculture.
www.tbsnews.net
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan met with Rushanara Ali MP and Rupa Huq MP, members of the Parliament of the United Kingdom, in London on Saturday (13 November). They had a discussion on various issues including cooperation between the UK and Bangladesh regarding graduation from LDC, possible changes in the tariff regime, and how Bangladesh could retain its access to the UK market in the post-LDC era, said a press release.
He requested Rushanara Ali MP and Rupa Huq MP to extend their support with regard to the continuation of duty-benefit for Bangladesh after the graduation from LDC status.
British politicians of Bangladeshi origins were also present at the meeting.
During the meeting, Faruque Hassan stressed the need for engagement of non-resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) in the development of Bangladesh.
He said NRBs have the immense potential to make more contributions to accelerating Bangladesh's development with their skills, technical expertise, knowledge and investment, the press release added.
A good number of NRBs living in the UK are well-established businessmen, while many have influential positions in governments as politicians and members of parliaments. Besides, many Bangladeshis are academicians, researchers, high government officials and holding other prestigious positions. They can play a significant role in shaping the financial, social and economic conditions of the country, the BGMEA President added.
Faruque Hassan sought cooperation of the two British MPs in encouraging Bangladeshis living in the UK to invest in different potential sectors of Bangladesh including high value-added and non-cotton textiles along with others.
He also apprised the British MPs about the unprecedented strides made by Bangladesh's RMG industry over the years in safety, sustainability and social compliance, which have earned the sector global recognitions.
BGMEA seeks support of UK MPs to retain market access in post-LDC status
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan requested Rushanara Ali MP and Rupa Huq MP to extend their support with regard to the continuation of duty-benefit for Bangladesh after the graduation from LDC status
The hi-tech park authority of Bangladesh and Uzbekistan will work together for the development of Information Technology (IT), hi-tech manufacturing, policy and development, research and innovation in both countries, said Zunaid Ahmed Palak, state minister for Information and Communication Technology.
The two countries will also work to advance the entrepreneurial sector of both countries, Palak added.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed regarding this on Saturday at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre, read a press release.
The agreement was signed by Syed Zahurul Islam, director (Technical), Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority and Ibragimov Farkhod Zairovic, executive director, IT Park, Uzbekistan.
Zunaid Ahmed Palak was present on the occasion as the chief guest.
He said the agreement will facilitate the startups of both countries to enter the international market easily. Under the agreement, training and mentoring will be provided to the startups of both countries, he further stated.
Capacity building programmes on machine learning, cyber security, artificial intelligence, blockchain will also be arranged for entrepreneurs and those involved with the industry of both Bangladesh and Uzbekistan, the minister added.
Earlier in September, a delegation team from Bangladesh led by Salman F Rahman, private industry and investment adviser to the prime minister and Zuniad Ahmed Palak met Alimjan Imarav, digital technology adviser to the prime minister of Uzbekistan and Ibrokhim Yu Abdurakhmonov, minister of innovative development of Uzbekistan.
During that visit, Uzbekistan expressed interest in taking the "IT-Enabled" service from Bangladesh and Bangladesh showed interest in the research and development sector of Uzbekistan.
Bangladesh and Uzbekistan to work together in IT, entrepreneurial development: Palak
Hi-tech Park authorities of both countries signs a memorandum of understanding (MoU) regarding this
Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on Sunday said they want to see an open, free, peaceful and inclusive Indian Ocean instead of any single country’s dominance noting that many have different types of interests towards the Indian Ocean.
“Indian Ocean is a huge issue. We don’t want to see any unilateral dominance in the Indian Ocean,” he told reporters at a media briefing at his ministry.
Bangladesh will host the 21st Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Council of Ministers’ (COM) meeting on November 17 as it takes up the IORA chairmanship for the first time in 24 years.
"Indo-Pacific Vision" will also come up for discussion.
IORA has six priority and two focus areas identified on the basis to promote sustained growth and balanced development in the Indian Ocean Region.
These are maritime safety and security, trade and investment facilitation, fisheries management, disaster risk management, tourism and cultural exchanges, academic, science and technology cooperation, blue economy, women's economic empowerment.
“We’ll try to focus on those issues,” Dr Momen said.
The 23rd Committee of Senior Officials (CSO) and its related meetings will be held on November 15-16 in a hybrid format (in-person & virtual).
The foreign minister said this is a great moment for Bangladesh and 12 ministers from 11 countries (two ministers from Tanzania) will be joining the IORA COM in person.
“Indian Ocean is very important for trading. It’s also dangerous with some associated risks like cyclones, typhoons, tidal surges. So, it’s an essential meeting,” he added.
Dr Momen also said they are looking at the future through the ocean as there are many things to achieve together through partnership and dialogue.
Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen said through the IORA event, Bangladesh has got an opportunity to demonstrate that Bangladesh has been able to bring the Covid situation under control.
“It’s a testimony to the external world that Covid-19 is under control in Bangladesh and we’re getting back to normalcy,” he observed.
The foreign secretary mentioned Bangladesh will also host the Peace Conference on December 4-6 in person, keeping the option open for virtual joining too.
Rear Admiral (Retd) Md Khurshed Alam, secretary of Maritime Affairs Unit (MAU) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said apart from the ministers, 82 representatives from member states will participate in it in person while many will join virtually.
The issues which will be discussed on November 15-16 and the decisions to be taken will be approved at the ministerial meeting.
He also said appointment of a secretary general of the IORA will also get approved at the ministerial meeting on November 17.
The secretary general is appointed by the Council of Ministers (COM) for a term of three years which is renewable for one additional term, from among the candidates nominated by the member states on the basis of qualification, experience and suitability as laid down in the staff regulations of the IORA Secretariat.
Khurshed Alam further said they want to take some programmes to share Bangladesh’s expertise with other countries and learn from other member States too. “We’ll show them practically our expertise in some areas like aquaculture and disaster management.”
He said the new IORA Action Plan 2022-27 will hopefully be approved this time, too.
Dr Momen said it is good news that many are looking at Bangladesh and Bangladesh is already a model in disaster management. “Partnership is more important than ever after we face Covid-19.”
A dozen of ministers representing IORA countries, including Minister for South Asia, the United Nations and the Commonwealth at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon will be visiting Bangladesh to attend the IORA event.
The IORA ministers will also meet Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during their stay in Dhaka. “We’re working on that,” said the foreign minister.
British Minister Tariq Ahmad will deliver a keynote speech at a program titled "Bangladesh-UK: Partners in Progress" on Monday afternoon.
The talks will be held at the Foreign Service Academy and Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen will chair the event.
The British minister will also have a meeting with Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen during his stay in Dhaka, said an official.
Foreign ministers of Sri Lanka, Union of Comoros, Indonesia, South Africa and a Minister of Tanzania will also visit Bangladesh.
US Deputy Assistant Secretary Kelly Keiderling will also arrive on Tuesday, said an official, mentioning that the United States is an observer at the IORA.
Keiderling is the South and Central Asian Affairs Bureau Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
The Chairmanship of Bangladesh is to run from 2021-2023, with the new vice-chair, the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates now taking the position of the past chair.
The forthcoming ministers' meeting will be preceded by the 23rd CSO meeting taking stock of the association's progress, and to endorse the next IORA’s Action Plan (2022-2027).
Meanwhile, a Strategic Dialogue on the Impact of Covid-19 and perspectives of economic recovery in the Indian Ocean Region will be held on November 17.
Foreign Minister Dr Momen will host dinner in honour of the delegations to be here to attend IORA meetings.
The Indian Ocean Rim Association is an inter-governmental organization that was established on March 7, 1997.
The vision for IORA originated during a visit by late President Nelson Mandela of South Africa to India in 1995.
Promoting sustained growth and balanced development within the Indian Ocean region, IORA strengthens cooperation and dialogue with member states.
They are Australia, Bangladesh, Union of Comoros, French Republic, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, the Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Oman, Seychelles, Singapore, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.
Momen: Dhaka wants inclusive Indian Ocean, not unilateral dominance
This will be discussed in the upcoming IORA COM meeting on Nov 17, says the state minister
United Arab Emirates (UAE) Assistant Minister for Economic and Trade Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) Abdulnasser Alshaali said that a joint business council would facilitate bilateral economic and commercial ties between Bangladesh and the gulf country.
Abdulnasser Alshaali made this remark while meeting Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) President Rizwan Rahman in the capital on Sunday (14 November), reads a press release.
"The establishment of a joint business council would facilitate broader and deeper engagement with both public and private sector stakeholders, especially in emerging sectors of mutual interest," the Assistant Minister said.
"Now is the right time to begin discussions on a closer partnership, especially as we work to overcome the fallout from Covid-19," he added.
The DCCI president said that the UAE could play a vital role in boosting the economic growth of Bangladesh by sharing technical know-how and transferring technology.
"DCCI will provide all the support needed to UAE businesses," he stated.
The Chargé d'Affaires of the UAE Embassy in Dhaka Abdulla Ali AlHmoudi was also present at the meeting.
He said, "The bilateral relationship has historically been based on shared beliefs, mutual respect and meaningful cooperation, with both countries working together to cope with common challenges and supporting each other in the international setting."
UAE calls for a joint business council to strengthen ties with Bangladesh
United Arab Emirates (UAE) Assistant Minister for Economic and Trade Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) Abdulnasser Alshaali said that a joint business council would facilitate bilateral economic and commercial ties between Bangladesh and the gulf...
Bangladesh and the United Arab Emirates have joined hands to manufacture Covid-19 vaccine.
The process of co-production in Bangladesh will start soon, according to Economic Relations Division (ERD) officials.
The UAE gave its consent to such a proposal from Bangladesh at the fifth session of the Joint Commission held between representatives of both the countries in Dhaka on Monday. The Gulf nation had first placed an offer to supply vaccine doses produced in the country to Bangladesh.
Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal said, "Both of our governments are keen to make the best of our potential in trade and investment."
The finance minister called upon the Middle Eastern country to invest in power, energy and mineral resources, information and communication technology, education, science and technology, marine environment, agriculture, and health services and health education.
ERD officials said DP World, a Dubai-based company, is investing in setting up Matarbari deep sea port under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) system. The company is also investing in another PPP project to establish an inland container depot in Gazipur's Dhirashram area.
They proposed investing more in such large PPP projects, the officials added.
Moreover, Bangladesh sought the UAE's support for duty- and quota-free access to its market, and the UAE representative assured Bangladesh of cooperation in this regard.
Bangladesh's exports to the UAE increased by 45.7% to $209.95 million year-on-year in the first four months of the current fiscal year, according to the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB). The country's exports to UAE amounted to $144.11 million at the same period in FY21.
The finance minister in the meeting also called upon the UAE to create more employment opportunities for Bangladeshi workers and professionals in the country.
The finance minister said more than half a million Bangladeshi expatriates are providing services in the UAE with reputation and dignity. There are still a lot of opportunities in the country's various sectors, especially for professional, skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled manpower.
ERD officials at the meeting proposed simplifying the recruitment process of Bangladeshi workers in the UAE labour market.
The UAE envoy suggested that the two countries start talks at the ministry level to this end.
Bangladesh's third highest remittances come from the UAE. But workers cannot go there on a work visa. Instead, they first have to go to the country for three months on visit visas. Then, they convert those into work visas and stay there for a certain period as per job contracts.
To get out of this situation, Bangladesh proposed introducing the work visa process directly.
Bangladesh, UAE to jointly produce Covid vaccine
Bangladesh and the United Arab Emirates have joined hands to manufacture Covid-19 vaccine. The process of co-production in Bangladesh will start soon, according to Economic Relations Division (ERD) officials. The UAE gave its consent to such a proposal from Bangladesh at the fifth session of...
Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen and his Sri Lankan counterpart Prof Gamini Lakshman Peiris have stressed on strong bilateral relations between their respective countries as the two foreign ministers met at state guest house Padma on Monday (15 November).
Dr Momen congratulated Prof Gamini Lakshman Peiris on his new appointment as the foreign minister of Sri Lanka and thanked him for attending the 21st meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Council of Ministers' (COM) physically despite the global Covid-19 related health concerns, said a press release.
The foreign minister also stated that Bangladesh attaches high importance to its relations with Sri Lanka, which he termed excellent, based on the historical linkages, friendship, and commonalities of views and shared vision of prosperity.
Recalling the state visit of Mahinda Rajapaksa, the prime minister of Sri Lanka to Dhaka on 19 – 20 March 2021 on the occasion of Birth Centenary of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the Golden Jubilee of the Independence of Bangladesh, he noted that it contributed in strengthening the ties of the two countries.
Gamini Lakshman Peiris expressed his happiness for meeting his Bangladeshi counterpart. He recalled the recent meeting of Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on the sidelines of the World Leaders' Summit of CoP-26 and said that the leadership of Sri Lanka highly appreciated the recent economic development of Bangladesh.
Peiris reiterated the importance of close relations between the two neighbours. He particularly stressed on further cooperation in the sectors like trade and commerce, investment, tourism, connectivity, agriculture, fisheries, education, and people to people contact.
The two ministers further emphasised on expeditious conclusion of PTA and enhancement of trade and commerce between the two countries. They underscored to further strengthen air and maritime connectivity for the greater benefit of the two countries, the press release added.
The Sri Lankan foreign minister sought collaboration on the area of e-commerce, involvement in the digital sector through sharing of Bangladesh's expertise.
Dr Momen mentioned of Bangladesh's success in the Pharmaceutical sector and urged his Sri Lankan counterpart to import pharmaceuticals products from Bangladesh.
Both foreign ministers noted the ongoing cooperation under IORA, maritime cooperation, maritime security, blue economy, climate change, prevention of over exploitation of marine resources.
They also pledged to explore the possible collaboration between Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Maritime University of Bangladesh and National Institute of Oceanographic Marine Sciences of Sri Lanka. The meeting ended with a positive note in a cordial atmosphere.
The Sri Lankan Foreign Minister is visiting Dhaka from 15-18 November 2021 and is expected to attend the 21st meeting of the IORA COM which is scheduled to be held on 17 November 2021.
Foreign minister, his Sri Lankan counterpart stress on strong bilateral relations
They also pledged to explore the possible collaboration between Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Maritime University of Bangladesh and National Institute of Oceanographic Marine Sciences of Sri Lanka
Chief of Army Staff General S M Shafiuddin Ahmed left Dhaka for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) today on a two-day official visit.
During the visit, the army chief will join a bilateral meeting with army chief of the UAE and discuss on extending mutual cooperation, said an ISPR release.
Besides, General S M Shafiuddin Ahmed will witness the International Dubai Air Show-2021 in Dubai at the invitation of Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces Lt. General Hamad Mohammed Thani Al Rumaithi.
The army chief will return home on 18 November.
Tanzania and Bangladesh are keen to work on agriculture, blue economy and other economic sectors through establishing official contacts.
The matter was discussed at a meeting between the Minister of Livestock and Fisheries Mashimba Mashauri Ndaki, MP, the Minister of Blue Economy and Fisheries of the United Republic of Tanzania, Abdullah Hussein Kombo and Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen, MP at the State Guest House Padma on Monday evening.
The ministers are visiting Dhaka for participating in the 21st Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Council of ministers and related meetings, read a press release.
At the outset of the meeting, the foreign minister said that he was glad to meet with the ministers of the government of Tanzania.
The Tanzanian Blue Economy and Fisheries minister expressed interest to know about the aquaculture, fisheries sectors, shipbuilding industry and horticultural sectors of Bangladesh.
Both sides also highlighted the importance of exchanging business delegations to develop trade and economy. The Foreign minister sought cooperation of the Tanzanian government for the solution of the Rohingya crisis.
Foreign Minister Momen narrated the development march of Bangladesh to the visiting ministers. He mentioned that under the visionary leadership of father of the nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh has attained remarkable socio-economic development.
He thanked the Tanzanian government for supporting Bangladesh Chairship at the Indian Ocean Rim Association.
Dr AK Momen commented that Bangladesh believes in economic growth and prosperity for all, read the statement.
He said that Bangladesh has attained remarkable success in many areas including creative economy for which Unesco has conferred the Unesco-Bangladesh Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman International Prize to Bangladesh.
Foreign Minister lauded Tanzania for their elevation to a middle-income country.
He also added that Bangladesh believes in multilateralism. Dr Momen also mentioned that under the prudent leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh has been able to achieve tremendous success in agriculture and socio-economic areas.
During the meeting both sides agreed to cooperate in different sectors of agriculture including fisheries, livestock, horticulture and aquaculture.
Tanzanian ministers, Bangladesh FM keen to work on agriculture, blue economy
The Tanzanian ministers are visiting Dhaka for participating in the 21st Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Council of ministers and related meetings
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The Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Prof Gamini Lakshman Peiris has expressed interest in expanding trade and commerce with Bangladesh in the shipping sector.
The foreign minister said this at a meeting with State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury at the Secretariat today.
During the meeting, they discussed issues of mutual interest.
There is a possibility of expanding trade and commerce in the shipping sector of Bangladesh with Sri Lanka, said Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury.
He said, "The more space Bangladesh can occupy in the Bay of Bengal shipping line, the more the country will benefit. Sri Lanka will be able to reap benefits of the Bay Terminal of Chattogram Port to be completed by 2024 and Matarbari Deep Sea Port in Cox's Bazar by 2026. The foundation of Bangladesh's economy will be stronger."
Among others, Secretary to the Ministry of Shipping Mohammad Mezbah Uddin Chowdhury and Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Bangladesh Prof Sudharshan Seneviratne were present.
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Bangladesh is going to ink an agreement with the Food Standard Agency (FSA) of the United Kingdom to increase exports of agricultural products in the European countries.
Agriculture Minister Md Abdur Razzaque, who is now in the UK, discussed the matter at the meeting with a delegation of the Food Standard Agency, according to a press statement of the ministry on Tuesday.
Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UK-based organisation, the ministry will take initiative to boost the volume of agricultural products in European countries.
Once the agreement is signed, Bangladesh will take initiatives to set up a state-of-the-art testing laboratory, Phytosanitary certification to meet phytosanitary export requirements for agro-products and improvement of those, the ministry added.
Agriculture Minister Md Abdur Razzaque said, "We are working to set up a world-class laboratory to facilitate the issuance of Phytosanitary certification to the agro-products in the country. The UK has such capability in the sector and we want to get this technological assistance from them."
Among others, Professor Robin May, chief scientific adviser to the UK Food Standard Agency (FSA) and Selvarani Elahi, UK deputy government chemist, were present at the meeting.
The delegation of FSA informed that grants could be obtained from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) for lab system development. They also said they would look into whether the issue could be covered by ongoing funding from UK AID.
Bangladesh High Commissioner to London Sayeeda Muna Tasneem said initiatives would be taken to include laboratory and phytosanitary certification issues to include in the Trade and Investment Agreement between Bangladesh and the UK which is now at negotiation level.
Recently, European Union (EU) countries have lifted the ban on importing betel leaf from Bangladesh after more than seven years. But the UK did not lift the ban on this crop.
Regarding the issue, the UK delegation said a bill regarding the ban is under consideration in the England, Wales and Scotland parliaments.
During a meeting with leaders of the British-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BBCCI) at the Bangladesh Embassy, Agriculture Minister Md Abdur Razzaque urged the UK expatriate businessmen to invest in commercial production of agro-products, and processing of these products in Bangladesh.
However, the business leaders pointed out various issues including high cargo airfare, scanning problem, cold storage problem in Cargo Village for exporting agricultural products from Bangladesh.
They also called for crop production, processing and certification in line with the Global Good Agricultural Practices (GAP).
A Bangladesh delegation led by the minister is now visiting the agricultural exchange firms, research centres, accreditation labs, post-collection technology, etc in the UK to increase exports of agricultural products in the European market.
www.tbsnews.net
The foreign minister said this at a meeting with State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury at the Secretariat today.
During the meeting, they discussed issues of mutual interest.
There is a possibility of expanding trade and commerce in the shipping sector of Bangladesh with Sri Lanka, said Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury.
He said, "The more space Bangladesh can occupy in the Bay of Bengal shipping line, the more the country will benefit. Sri Lanka will be able to reap benefits of the Bay Terminal of Chattogram Port to be completed by 2024 and Matarbari Deep Sea Port in Cox's Bazar by 2026. The foundation of Bangladesh's economy will be stronger."
Among others, Secretary to the Ministry of Shipping Mohammad Mezbah Uddin Chowdhury and Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Bangladesh Prof Sudharshan Seneviratne were present.
Sri Lankan FM interested in expanding trade in shipping sector
The Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Prof Gamini Lakshman Peiris has expressed interest in expanding trade and commerce with Bangladesh in the shipping sector. The foreign minister said this at a meeting with State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury at the Secretariat today. During the...
Bangladesh is going to ink an agreement with the Food Standard Agency (FSA) of the United Kingdom to increase exports of agricultural products in the European countries.
Agriculture Minister Md Abdur Razzaque, who is now in the UK, discussed the matter at the meeting with a delegation of the Food Standard Agency, according to a press statement of the ministry on Tuesday.
Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UK-based organisation, the ministry will take initiative to boost the volume of agricultural products in European countries.
Once the agreement is signed, Bangladesh will take initiatives to set up a state-of-the-art testing laboratory, Phytosanitary certification to meet phytosanitary export requirements for agro-products and improvement of those, the ministry added.
Agriculture Minister Md Abdur Razzaque said, "We are working to set up a world-class laboratory to facilitate the issuance of Phytosanitary certification to the agro-products in the country. The UK has such capability in the sector and we want to get this technological assistance from them."
Among others, Professor Robin May, chief scientific adviser to the UK Food Standard Agency (FSA) and Selvarani Elahi, UK deputy government chemist, were present at the meeting.
The delegation of FSA informed that grants could be obtained from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) for lab system development. They also said they would look into whether the issue could be covered by ongoing funding from UK AID.
Bangladesh High Commissioner to London Sayeeda Muna Tasneem said initiatives would be taken to include laboratory and phytosanitary certification issues to include in the Trade and Investment Agreement between Bangladesh and the UK which is now at negotiation level.
Recently, European Union (EU) countries have lifted the ban on importing betel leaf from Bangladesh after more than seven years. But the UK did not lift the ban on this crop.
Regarding the issue, the UK delegation said a bill regarding the ban is under consideration in the England, Wales and Scotland parliaments.
During a meeting with leaders of the British-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BBCCI) at the Bangladesh Embassy, Agriculture Minister Md Abdur Razzaque urged the UK expatriate businessmen to invest in commercial production of agro-products, and processing of these products in Bangladesh.
However, the business leaders pointed out various issues including high cargo airfare, scanning problem, cold storage problem in Cargo Village for exporting agricultural products from Bangladesh.
They also called for crop production, processing and certification in line with the Global Good Agricultural Practices (GAP).
A Bangladesh delegation led by the minister is now visiting the agricultural exchange firms, research centres, accreditation labs, post-collection technology, etc in the UK to increase exports of agricultural products in the European market.
Bangladesh to sign MoU with UK’s Food Standards Agency
The delegation of FSA said they would look into whether the issue could be covered by ongoing funding from UK AID
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South Korea currently has the highest number of investors – 71, who have put their money in export processing zones (EPZs) in Bangladesh.
Besides, 56 investors from China, 28 from Hong Kong, 31 from Japan, 25 from Taiwan, and 20 investors from India have invested in the EPZs, which are contributing hugely to the country's export earnings, foreign investment and employment.
A favourable investment atmosphere is drawing more foreign companies to EPZs. Kido Industrial Company, a renowned apparel manufacturer based in South Korea, is one of them.
The company has announced to invest $36.17 million in the Adamjee EPZ to establish a new company and renovate an existing firm that it recently acquired.
The company will make high-value products including motorcycle safety jackets, leather jackets, and fibre jackets.
There are many skilled workers in this sector in Bangladesh, said Joseph Ahn, director of Kido Dhaka Co Ltd.
Bangladeshi national Md Zahirul Islam, general manager (operations) of the company, told The Business Standard that the establishments of EPZs have created opportunities for local people to work with foreign companies.
"I have about 12 years of working experience in EPZs. I can apply my experience in Kido Dhaka Company Limited," he said.
Apart from local entrepreneurs, investors from 38 countries – including China, Japan, South Korea, the United States, the United Kingdom, India, Sri Lanka, Canada, Malaysia, Germany, the Netherlands, Singapore, Pakistan, Denmark, and France – currently have an investment in the EPZs here.
Economists attribute this success of EPZs to the availability of cheap labour and timely decisions of the government.
Besides, a good working environment has made the EPZs an attractive place to invest in – for both domestic and foreign investors.
Dr Khondaker Golam Moazzem, research director at the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), told TBS that EPZs are playing an important role in Bangladesh compared to other countries.
"It is shown as a model. Dhaka and Chittagong EPZs have received many large investments. As foreign investors come up with new ideas and technologies, our entrepreneurs can learn from them. They can reform them [ideas and technologies] later.
"Local people are working in foreign industrial factories where they are coming to know about different technologies. As a result, technology is being transferred."
Mentioning that land in EPZs is in high demand among investors because of a good working environment, Moazzem said new EPZs should be developed quickly.
Bepza General Manager (public relations) Nazma Binte Alamgir told TBS that no plot is vacant in Chittagong EPZ, Dhaka EPZ, Cumilla EPZ, Karnaphuli EPZ, and Adamjee EPZ.
There are one or two plots vacant in the other EPZs, she mentioned, adding but those too were allotted.
The Bepza executive further said as both local and foreign investors are showing interest in investing in the EPZs, the government will establish three new EPZs Patuakhali, Jashore and Gaibandha.
Besides, the Bepza Economic Zone is being set up on a 1,150-acre land in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Industrial City, she added. Already, 78 companies have applied for more than 250 plots in the EPZ and initially 119 plots have been allotted.
There will be 539 plots in Bepza EZ, she said, adding once the economic zone is fully operational, it will create about 5 lakh jobs.
Mentioning that about 4,60,000 workers are employed in the eight EPZs, Nazma said Bepza has set a unique example in the case of female employment as 67% of the total employees are women.
Healthcare centres, transport and day-care facilities are among the services available for EPZ workers, she listed.
Quality products of many global brands are being made in the EPZs, which are in high demand in the international market.
Of the 10 Lead Platinum Certified Factories in the world, seven are in Bangladesh and five of them are in EPZs, she added.
EPZs account 20% of export
According to official data, about 20% of Bangladesh's total export income now comes from the eight EPZs where 457 industrial units are currently in production.
Data provided by the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (Bepza) show that in the 2020-21 fiscal year, the eight EPZs exported goods worth $6.64 billion, which was 17.14% of the country's total export income that year.
In the first four months (July-October) of the current fiscal, export income from the EPZs stood at $2.58 billion.
The total investment made in the EPZs currently stands at $5.71 billion, creating 4,54,708 jobs.
In FY21, the EPZs got $337.76 million in new investment and job opportunities were created for 47,131 people.
Diversified products are being made in these EPZ – built for 100% export-oriented investment – for world-renowned brands.
Encouraged by a huge response from investors, the government has planned to establish three new EPZs.
Besides, work is underway to establish the Bepza Economic Zone at the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Industrial City in Mirsharai, Chattogram.
South Korean investors ahead of others in EPZs
In FY21, companies operating in the EPZs exported goods worth $6.64 billion, which was 17.14% of the country’s total export income that year
Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (Bepza) has recently sought more investment from South Korea in Bangladesh's export processing zones (EPZs).
Bepza Executive Chairman Major General Abul Kalam Mohammad Ziaur Rahman made the call during a meeting with South Korean Ambassador Lee Jang-Keun at the Dhaka EPZ on Thursday, during a visit by the envoy, reads a press statement.
The South Korean envoy expressed satisfaction with the overall production-oriented peaceful environment prevailing in EPZs and the role of BEPZA in the economic development of Bangladesh.
Welcoming the ambassador, Ziaur said Bepza authority always prioritises business-related issues of South Korean investors to run their business smoothly in the EPZs.
The Bepza chief sought more South Korean investment in its economic zones and EPZs.
Responding to the call, Lee assured on providing the best support to increase investment from his country.
Besides, Ambassador Lee and Major General Ziaur Rahman inaugurated "KOICA Vision Centre" established for eye disease treatment at Dhaka EPZ Hospital on the day. Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has set up the "Vision Centre" to provide free eye care services to EPZ workers.
They also visited Korean garment manufacturing company Youngone Hi-tech Sportswear Ind Ltd and cap manufacturing company Dhakarea Ltd.
Bepza seeks more S Korean investment in the EPZs
The South Korean envoy assured Bepza on providing the best support to increase investment from his country
A seven-member Vietnamese delegation, led by Ambassador of Vietnam to Bangladesh Pham Viet Chien, has expressed interest in importing jute and pharmaceutical products from Bangladesh.
While paying a courtesy call on Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) President Rizwan Rahman on Wednesday, the delegation engaged in an interactive meeting where Ambassador Chien said that Bangladesh should export more to Vietnam and reduce the existing trade gap.
To boost bilateral trade between the two countries, Bangladesh needs to develop more in logistics and ensure better port facilities, he added.
The ambassador also requested the business community of Bangladesh to send trade delegations to Vietnam for more interaction between business stakeholders.
Highlighting the importance of trade relations between Bangladesh and Vietnam, DCCI President Rizwan Rahman said Vietnam is the 18th largest import partner and 44th largest export market for Bangladesh.
He said that in FY2020-21, bilateral trade between Bangladesh and Vietnam reached $739.89 million, where exports and imports were $61.29 million and $678.6 million respectively.
The DCCI president said that to increase trade between the two countries, direct flights between Dhaka and Hanoi can play a significant role. He also sought Vietnam's support to help Bangladesh become a member of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
From Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry, N K A Mobin, FCS, FCA, senior vice president, Monowar Hossain, vice president, and the chamber's board of directors were present for the meeting, among others.
Vietnam interested to import jute from Bangladesh
Bangladesh needs to develop more in logistics and ensure better port facilities to boost trade, Vietnam envoy says
Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Imran Ahmad has held a courtesy call with Libyan Charge d'Affaires to Bangladesh Rahoumah M R Yahy.
The meeting was held at the minister's office on Tuesday (14 November), said a press release.
During the meeting, they discussed about the Libyan labor market and migration; discouraging irregularities in order to ensure fairness, order and discipline along the process.
They also explored strategies to prevent offences such as human trafficking.
The minister and the diplomat also exchanged views akin to the camaraderie between Bangladesh and Libya.
Dr Ahmed Munirus Saleheen, secretary of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Ministry was also present at the meeting.
Expatriates’ Minister holds meeting with Libyan Charge d’Affaires
They discussed about the Libyan labor market and migration
State Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Somalia Balal Mohamed Cusman and Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen agreed to establish cooperation in education, IT and agriculture sector as well as develop the existing trade and commerce.
The ministers met on 17 November morning at the sidelines of IORA 21st meeting of the Council of Ministers.
The State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Somalia was accompanied by the Ambassador of Somalia to India.
The State Minister of Somalia expressed his heartfelt thanks for the warm welcome extended by the Bangladesh side to the Somalian delegation during IORA conference. He informed that due to government measures of Somalia the situation of Covid in Somalia is improving.
Dr Momen also apprised him about the development march of Bangladesh and said that Bangladesh is maintaining robust economic growth despite the effect of the Covid Pandemic. He underlined that both countries may cooperate in various areas including agriculture, education and IT &ICT.
Foreign Minister suggested that Somalian students may choose to study in Bangladesh private Universities as education is being offered in various disciplines. He also mentioned that Bangladesh has made a lot of progress in agricultural research areas as well as agricultural production. He informed that Bangladesh is exporting pharmaceuticals to a large number of countries. Bangladesh also has acquired expertise in shipbuilding and it is producing ships, burgess and boats. He also mentioned that Bangladesh has earned expertise in sectors like IT and ICT, agriculture including fisheries and livestock.
Dr Momen proposed that both countries can establish cooperation on contract farming.
Somalian State Minister Balal Mohamed Cusman agreed to the idea and commented that it would be mutually beneficial if contract farming may be established by joint collaboration as Somalia has huge unutilized cultivable land.
Dr Momen proposed that the Agreement on cooperation on avoidance of double Taxation may be signed between two countries. He also sought the support of Somalia in the Rohingya issue for the safe and dignified return of the displaced Rohingya people to their homeland. The Somalian State Minister sought the support of Bangladesh at the candidature of Somalia at UN Security Council Election in 2025-2026 turn.
Dr Momen said, Bangladesh and Somalia maintain friendly cooperation. Somalia has been supporting the international candidature of Bangladesh. He sought the support of Somalia at the next IMO and Human Rights Councils.
Somalia, Dhaka agree to establish cooperation in education, IT, agriculture
State Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Somalia Balal Mohamed Cusman and Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen agreed to establish cooperation in education, IT and agriculture sector as well as develop the existing trade and commerce. The ministers met on 17...
The United Kingdom has expressed its keenness to work on alternative energy with Bangladesh.
UK Minister of State for South Asia, the United Nation and the Commonwealth of FCDO Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon expressed the desire when he called on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at her official Ganabhaban residence here this evening, Prime Minister's Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim told media after the call on.
During the meeting, they also discussed various issues like climate, British-Bangladesh trade and Rohingya issues, he said.
Emphasizing green energy the UK state minister said that the region has a great potential for green energy as Nepal and Bhutan have hydroelectricity.
He also said hydroelectricity can be distributed through establishing a regional grid.
In reply, Bangladesh Prime Minister said, "We are working on it."
As Tariq Ahmad stressed the need for solar energy, Sheikh Hasina said that Bangladesh has so far given 6.5 billion solar connections.
About the Rohingya issue, the British Minister said that they want the Rohingya to return to their homeland Myanmar from Bangladesh.
He continued that he met many Rohingya refugees in Cox's Bazar and said they highly lauded Bangladesh's Prime Minister and the present government.
The UK minister said that Rohingyas blamed their men for causing trouble in their camps, quoting them as saying he added: "No Bangladeshi is responsible for causing trouble in the camps.
Sheikh Hasina told the UK minister that some Rohingyas have been sifted on an island.
The Prime Minister said that her government has taken measures to give them jobs, proper education and training to make them skilled as they will not be considered a burden when they are sent back to their homeland.
She called upon the international agencies to work for the Rohingyas upon taking them back to Myanmar.
Prime Minister's Principal Secretary Dr Ahmad Kaikaus and the British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Robert Chatterton Dickson, were present.
Britain keen to work with Bangladesh on alternative energy
The United Kingdom has expressed its keenness to work on alternative energy with Bangladesh. UK Minister of State for South Asia, the United Nation and the Commonwealth of FCDO Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon expressed the desire when he called on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at her official...
Bangladesh has urged the South African government to establish a diplomatic representation in Dhaka in order to facilitate consular and other cooperation as the two countries seek greater cooperation in broader areas.
Foreign minister AK Abdul Momen made the request during a meeting with South African minister of international relations and cooperation Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor at State Guest House Padma on Thursday.
Momen sought continued cooperation of South Africa in Rohingya repatriation issue.
He sought support of the government of South Africa at IMO and other Bangladesh candidature.
Pandor paid a bilateral visit to Bangladesh after her engagements at IORA 21st Council of Ministers meetings in Dhaka.
She was accompanied by high officials of South African foreign ministry and the South African high commissioner in India.
At the outset of the meeting, Momen briefed her about the development march of Bangladesh under the prudent leadership of prime minister Sheikh Hasina and the huge socio-economic progress achieved by Bangladesh during the last decade.
During the meeting, both sides discussed important issues of mutual interest and cooperation.
Momen proposed that there may be cooperation between both sides in different areas of mutual interest, including agriculture and blue economy.
He underlined the importance of high-level visits and exchange of business delegations between the two countries.
Pandor expressed satisfaction on the warm welcome extended to her and the visiting South African delegation.
While apprising about the economic development of South Africa and its comparative advantage on many areas, the South African foreign minister underlined the importance of continuing cooperation between the two countries in trade, economic and other identified areas.
Both sides agreed that there would be visits by a business delegation from Bangladesh to South Africa and vice versa.
The Bangladesh and South African sides also discussed celebrating the silver jubilee of diplomatic relations between the two countries in a befitting manner.
It was decided that the Bangladesh high commission in Pretoria in collaboration with the South African foreign ministry would organise seminars and trade shows demonstrating the deep bilateral relations between the two countries.
S Africa urged to open diplomatic mission
Bangladesh has urged the South African government to establish a diplomatic representation in Dhaka in order to facilitate consular and other cooperation as the two...
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Bangladesh and the Maldives have agreed to establish a direct shipping line with Chattogram as Malé is keen to enhance connectivity and bilateral trade between the two countries.
Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen discussed the issue when they had a meeting with visiting Vice President of the Maldives Faisal Naseem at a city hotel on Monday evening.
The Vice President of the Maldives is accompanied by two Cabinet Ministers and the Foreign Secretary of the Maldives.
The Bangladesh Foreign Minister was accompanied by Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen and other senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Dr Momen assured the Maldives of extending necessary assistance in providing medical education, training and skill development in various areas of the Maldives.
He stated that Bangladeshi expatriate workers in the Maldives are diligently contributing to the host economy.
The Maldives side expressed keen interest to recruit specialized professionals and medical doctors from Bangladesh.
Both sides reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, discussed ways and means for further strengthening cooperation and exchanged views on regional and international issues.
Dr Momen stated that Bangladesh attaches high importance to the Maldives which are rooted in shared religion, culture and values.
He recalled that the state visit of the President of the Maldives on the occasion of birth centenary of Father of Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Golden Jubilee of the Independence of Bangladesh on 17-19 March 2021 had contributed to advancing Bangladesh-Maldives bilateral relations to a great extent.
Dr Momen thanked the government of the Maldives through the Vice President for the gift of 2,00,000 Covid-19 vaccines for the people of Bangladesh.
Earlier, Faisal paid tribute to the memories of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Bangabandhu Memorial Museum, Dhanmondi, Dhaka with a floral wreath.
Faisal Naseem arrived here on Monday on a three-day official visit.
He is expected to meet President Abdul Hamid and a few cabinet ministers during the visit.
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South Korea has approved $100 million from the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) to help the recovery of Bangladesh's economy hit by the pandemic.
This will be the first EDCF loan to be implemented under the new EDCF Framework Agreement for the years 2021 through 2025, which was signed between the two governments on October 24, 2021, according to a statement of the Korean embassy in Dhaka yesterday.
www.thedailystar.net
Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen discussed the issue when they had a meeting with visiting Vice President of the Maldives Faisal Naseem at a city hotel on Monday evening.
The Vice President of the Maldives is accompanied by two Cabinet Ministers and the Foreign Secretary of the Maldives.
The Bangladesh Foreign Minister was accompanied by Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen and other senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Dr Momen assured the Maldives of extending necessary assistance in providing medical education, training and skill development in various areas of the Maldives.
He stated that Bangladeshi expatriate workers in the Maldives are diligently contributing to the host economy.
The Maldives side expressed keen interest to recruit specialized professionals and medical doctors from Bangladesh.
Both sides reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, discussed ways and means for further strengthening cooperation and exchanged views on regional and international issues.
Dr Momen stated that Bangladesh attaches high importance to the Maldives which are rooted in shared religion, culture and values.
He recalled that the state visit of the President of the Maldives on the occasion of birth centenary of Father of Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Golden Jubilee of the Independence of Bangladesh on 17-19 March 2021 had contributed to advancing Bangladesh-Maldives bilateral relations to a great extent.
Dr Momen thanked the government of the Maldives through the Vice President for the gift of 2,00,000 Covid-19 vaccines for the people of Bangladesh.
Earlier, Faisal paid tribute to the memories of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Bangabandhu Memorial Museum, Dhanmondi, Dhaka with a floral wreath.
Faisal Naseem arrived here on Monday on a three-day official visit.
He is expected to meet President Abdul Hamid and a few cabinet ministers during the visit.
Maritime connectivity: Maldives to establish direct shipping line with Chattogram
It’s keen to recruit specialized professionals, medical doctors from Bangladesh
South Korea has approved $100 million from the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) to help the recovery of Bangladesh's economy hit by the pandemic.
This will be the first EDCF loan to be implemented under the new EDCF Framework Agreement for the years 2021 through 2025, which was signed between the two governments on October 24, 2021, according to a statement of the Korean embassy in Dhaka yesterday.
S Korea approves $100m loan
South Korea has approved $100 million from the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) to help the recovery of Bangladesh’s economy hit by the pandemic.
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Algerian Ambassador to Dhaka, Rabah Larbi, expressed interest in signing a memorandum of understanding for increasing trade with Bangladesh during a courtesy meeting with FBCCI President Md Jashim Uddin, on Wednesday.
The agreement with the Algerian Trade Organisation would increase trade and investment opportunities between the two countries, said a press statement.
Responding positively to the proposal, FBCCI President Md Jashim Uddin said, "Trade associations of more than 50 countries of the world have signed about 150 MoUs with FBCCI."
The FBCCI president also promised to soon send a draft agreement to the Algerian embassy in Dhaka.
FBCCI's Mostofa Azad Chowdhury Babu, senior vice president, Amin Helaly, vice president, and Mohammad Mahfuzul Hoque, secretary general of FBCCI, were also present at the event.
At present Algeria imports jute and jute products, woven and knitwear garments, home textiles, and footwear, from Bangladesh. It also buys a significant amount of consumer goods, cereals, dairy products, plastics, and medicines every year on the world market.
The Memorandum of Understanding between the Algerian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the FBCCI could be mutually beneficial.
www.tbsnews.net
The agreement with the Algerian Trade Organisation would increase trade and investment opportunities between the two countries, said a press statement.
Responding positively to the proposal, FBCCI President Md Jashim Uddin said, "Trade associations of more than 50 countries of the world have signed about 150 MoUs with FBCCI."
The FBCCI president also promised to soon send a draft agreement to the Algerian embassy in Dhaka.
FBCCI's Mostofa Azad Chowdhury Babu, senior vice president, Amin Helaly, vice president, and Mohammad Mahfuzul Hoque, secretary general of FBCCI, were also present at the event.
At present Algeria imports jute and jute products, woven and knitwear garments, home textiles, and footwear, from Bangladesh. It also buys a significant amount of consumer goods, cereals, dairy products, plastics, and medicines every year on the world market.
The Memorandum of Understanding between the Algerian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the FBCCI could be mutually beneficial.
Algeria is interested in increasing trade with Bangladesh: Algerian ambassador
Algerian chamber of commerce and industry interested in signing MoU with FBCCI
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On November 24, 2021, Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov received the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of Bangladesh to Azerbaijan Gousal Azam Sarker.
The Minister congratulated the Ambassador of Bangladesh on his new appointment. He noted that political relations between the two countries are at a good level and there are opportunities for the development of cooperation in a number of areas. Cooperation between Azerbaijan and Bangladesh on international platforms was highlighted.
Ambassador Gousal Azam Sarker noted that his country is interested in further expanding mutual cooperation based on traditional bilateral ties. He spoke with satisfaction about the development of relations in the political and cultural spheres, noting that there are opportunities to expand economic ties.
The sides exchanged views on the development of relations between the two countries in a number of areas, including people-to-people contacts, education, tourism, industry and investment.
At the meeting, measures taken within the framework of Azerbaijan's chairmanship in the Non-Aligned Movement, in particular, steps taken in response to global challenges, including in the fight against the pandemic, cooperation within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and in this regard, support by Bangladesh for Azerbaijan's fair position in connection with the past conflict, as well as cooperation within other international organizations were discussed.
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Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Ambassador Masud Bin Momen has led a delegation to attend the first-ever bilateral consultations between Bangladesh and Maldives.
Foreign Secretary of Maldives Abdul Ghafoor led the Maldives delegation in the consultation held in Male on Saturday, reads a press release.
Both the Foreign Secretaries noted the excellent relations that exist between the two countries and committed to further strengthen in the days to come.
Ambassador Masud reiterated that Bangladesh attaches high importance to promoting relations with neighbouring countries following the Foreign Policy of our Honourable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The Foreign Secretaries discussed the entire spectrum of relations and emphasised deepening cooperation in the sectors including the conclusion of a few bilateral instruments for further collaboration, trade and connectivity, protection of migrant workers, human resource development, agriculture, fisheries, cultural exchange programme, climate change, protection of environment and tourism for enhancing people to people to contact.
Bangladesh Foreign Secretary noted that Bangladesh under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has achieved remarkable success in socio-economic development.
Maldives sides sought support from Bangladesh for the recruitment of skilled human resources including recruitment of specialised doctors and nurses.
They also sought support from Bangladesh for specialized courses in higher education, especially in medical education.
Maldives Foreign Secretary expressed gratitude to Bangladesh for extending support to the Maldives on several occasions during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Bangladesh, Maldives hold first bilateral consultations
Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Ambassador Masud Bin Momen has led a delegation to attend the first-ever bilateral consultations between Bangladesh and Maldives. Foreign Secretary of Maldives Abdul Ghafoor led the Maldives delegation in the consultation held in Male on Saturday, reads a press...
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The Saudi government has expressed a keen interest in financing the Chattogram-Cox's Bazar and Jessore-Khulna four-lane highway project, Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said today.
The minister disclosed after a Saudi delegation led by Saudi Transport Minister Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser paid a courtesy call on Obaidul Quader on Sunday afternoon.
The minister further said that the Saudi transport minister expressed interest in financing the project of upgrading the 150-km highway from Chattogram to Cox's Bazar and 72-km long Jessore-Khulna highway to four lanes.
"He [the Saudi minister] also expressed interest in investing in other potential areas of Bangladesh," Quader added.
The minister, during the meeting, mentioned the need to increase Bangladesh's manpower export opportunities to Saudi Arabia and stressed the need to further strengthen the friendly relations between the two countries.
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The minister disclosed after a Saudi delegation led by Saudi Transport Minister Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser paid a courtesy call on Obaidul Quader on Sunday afternoon.
The minister further said that the Saudi transport minister expressed interest in financing the project of upgrading the 150-km highway from Chattogram to Cox's Bazar and 72-km long Jessore-Khulna highway to four lanes.
"He [the Saudi minister] also expressed interest in investing in other potential areas of Bangladesh," Quader added.
The minister, during the meeting, mentioned the need to increase Bangladesh's manpower export opportunities to Saudi Arabia and stressed the need to further strengthen the friendly relations between the two countries.
Saudi Arabia keen on funding Ctg-Cox’s Bazar, Jessore-Khulna 4-lane project
The minister further said that the Saudi transport minister expressed interest in financing the project of upgrading the 150-km highway from Chattogram to Cox's Bazar and 72-km long Jessore-Khulna highway to four lanes
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Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Eng. Saleh Bin Nasser Al-Jasser of Saudi Arabia said his country is keen to increase its investment in Bangladesh.
"Saudi Arabia is keen to increase investment in Bangladesh and I will inform our government about Beza's headway to facilitate investment from the kingdom," he said on Monday during a visit to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar (BSMSN).
The Saudi minister lauded the activities of Beza and the initiative of the incumbent government for setting up the planned industrial city.
A 14-member Saudi delegation, led by Eng. Saleh Bin Nasser Al-Jasser, went to BSMSN by a special helicopter and visited the special economic zone proposed for Saudi Arabia there and different establishments as well, said a press release.
Bangladesh Economic Zone Authority (Beza) is developing the industrial city on about 33,000 acres of land in Mirsarai and Sitakunda upazilas of Chattogram and Sonagazi upazila of Feni.
The Saudi Minister came to Bangladesh to join the International Investment Summit 2021 held on Sunday as a special guest.
During the visit, Beza officials have arranged a PowerPoint presentation, highlighting various development works at BSMSN, investment proposal, and installation of industry, Beza's one-stop service centre and management of services.
Beza is setting up all required installations in the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar at Tk5400 crore, funded by the World Bank.
The industrial city is only 10 kilometres from Dhaka-Chattogram highway and 65 kilometres from Chattogram city, the commercial hub of the country.
BSMSN will have various world-class facilities --including a power plant, seaport, central waste management/central water purifier, residential area, commercial area, university and hospital.
Beza, with the support of departments concerned in the government, has developed the lands and constructed connecting roads, protection embankments and bridges and also set up a gas supply line for the industrial city.
www.tbsnews.net
"Saudi Arabia is keen to increase investment in Bangladesh and I will inform our government about Beza's headway to facilitate investment from the kingdom," he said on Monday during a visit to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar (BSMSN).
The Saudi minister lauded the activities of Beza and the initiative of the incumbent government for setting up the planned industrial city.
A 14-member Saudi delegation, led by Eng. Saleh Bin Nasser Al-Jasser, went to BSMSN by a special helicopter and visited the special economic zone proposed for Saudi Arabia there and different establishments as well, said a press release.
Bangladesh Economic Zone Authority (Beza) is developing the industrial city on about 33,000 acres of land in Mirsarai and Sitakunda upazilas of Chattogram and Sonagazi upazila of Feni.
The Saudi Minister came to Bangladesh to join the International Investment Summit 2021 held on Sunday as a special guest.
During the visit, Beza officials have arranged a PowerPoint presentation, highlighting various development works at BSMSN, investment proposal, and installation of industry, Beza's one-stop service centre and management of services.
Beza is setting up all required installations in the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar at Tk5400 crore, funded by the World Bank.
The industrial city is only 10 kilometres from Dhaka-Chattogram highway and 65 kilometres from Chattogram city, the commercial hub of the country.
BSMSN will have various world-class facilities --including a power plant, seaport, central waste management/central water purifier, residential area, commercial area, university and hospital.
Beza, with the support of departments concerned in the government, has developed the lands and constructed connecting roads, protection embankments and bridges and also set up a gas supply line for the industrial city.
Saudi Arabia keen on increasing investment in Bangladesh: Saudi Minister
He was leading a 14-member Saudi delegation on a visit to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar on Monday
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The country received around $2.7 billion investment proposals by foreigners as the two-day long investment summit concluded in Dhaka on Monday.
"We did not have any target. We just wanted the investors to know about the new Bangladesh," Salman F Rahman, private industry and investment adviser to the prime minister, told the concluding session of the summit.
"At the event, they [foreign investors] came to know about Bangladesh. They came to learn about the changes the country has gone through. They now know that there is a satisfactory investment environment here," Salman added.
While detailing the investment proposals, Md Sirazul Islam, executive chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (Bida), said, "We are so very excited that this summit has attracted over $2.7 billion in investment proposals and deals including a $1.5 billion Saudi proposal in infrastructure and engineering."
The investors include Saudi Arabia's Engineering Dimension, Bangladeshi United Group and Turkish Aygaz.
The executive chairman said more than 6,000 participants of 54 countries joined the 16 sessions of the summit. Over 5,000 participants joined in person while nearly 1,400 were connected to the event through online platforms.
"This indicates how the 'Bangladesh Brand' is expanding globally," he said, adding they received important policy suggestions throughout the summit to facilitate more private investments. The suggestions include private sector engagement in power transmission and reformation of the banking sector.
In his speech, Salman F Rahman thanked the potential investors who joined the summit, and said, "Only 25% of participants who completed the summit registration came here, and we struggled to accommodate them perfectly."
Hector Gomez Ang, regional director for South Asia at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), said, "It is a great moment for Bangladesh to include the private sector in power transmission and distribution. A modern transmission and distribution system supported by private investment will help accelerate GDP growth by increasing efficiency and reducing system losses."
He expressed belief that by addressing issues such as NPLs, the bankruptcy act, foreign exchange regulations and other regulatory constraints, the government will be paving the way for the banking system to better serve Bangladesh businesses and population.
The IFC, as the largest global private sector development bank, is fully committed to continue to work with the Bangladesh government and the private sector here in this endeavor, he continued.
"Bangladesh is a priority country for the IFC. We have been a long-standing partner and plan to continue to play a major role in this pivotal phase of Bangladesh's development journey. Over the last six years, we have committed about $250 million in climate investments in Bangladesh."
The IFC has invested in excess of $2 billion over the past five years, he noted, adding they plan to double the investments. "We are committed to supporting market diversification beyond RMG and ensuring that Bangladesh is the next Asian Tiger."
At the event, Atiqul Islam, mayor of the Dhaka North City Corporation, said, Bangladesh is now the best place to invest in.
"We have taken many initiatives. We will change the whole city of Dhaka with the introduction of electric buses."
The city corporation has created a new trend by introducing green bonds, he maintains, adding, "We have undertaken various green projects including canals, eco parks. We want foreign investment in these projects."
As the chief guest of the concluding session, Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal said Bangladesh's growth potential is now recognised worldwide as the country is forecasted to be the 25th largest economy in the world by 2035.
"In fact, we aspire to be a rich nation like the G-20 countries by 2041," the minister said.
Terming Bangladesh "an ideal destination for foreign investments", he said the country offers liberal investment policies and attractive packages to the investors.
"We also offer generous tax holidays and other fiscal packages. Long-term lease-able plots are available in special economic zones," he added.
www.tbsnews.net
Saudi Arabian company Engineering Dimensions will invest $1.5b to Bangladesh.
Chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Sirajul Islam confirmed the news to The Business Standard.
The Saudi company will jointly invest in two companies in Bangladesh.
The Engineering Dimensions will invest in sugar, fertilizer and beverage industries in Chittagong along with Dipan Engineering. It will also set up a large scale cement factory with Titas Enterprise.
www.tbsnews.net
"We did not have any target. We just wanted the investors to know about the new Bangladesh," Salman F Rahman, private industry and investment adviser to the prime minister, told the concluding session of the summit.
"At the event, they [foreign investors] came to know about Bangladesh. They came to learn about the changes the country has gone through. They now know that there is a satisfactory investment environment here," Salman added.
While detailing the investment proposals, Md Sirazul Islam, executive chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (Bida), said, "We are so very excited that this summit has attracted over $2.7 billion in investment proposals and deals including a $1.5 billion Saudi proposal in infrastructure and engineering."
The investors include Saudi Arabia's Engineering Dimension, Bangladeshi United Group and Turkish Aygaz.
The executive chairman said more than 6,000 participants of 54 countries joined the 16 sessions of the summit. Over 5,000 participants joined in person while nearly 1,400 were connected to the event through online platforms.
"This indicates how the 'Bangladesh Brand' is expanding globally," he said, adding they received important policy suggestions throughout the summit to facilitate more private investments. The suggestions include private sector engagement in power transmission and reformation of the banking sector.
In his speech, Salman F Rahman thanked the potential investors who joined the summit, and said, "Only 25% of participants who completed the summit registration came here, and we struggled to accommodate them perfectly."
Hector Gomez Ang, regional director for South Asia at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), said, "It is a great moment for Bangladesh to include the private sector in power transmission and distribution. A modern transmission and distribution system supported by private investment will help accelerate GDP growth by increasing efficiency and reducing system losses."
He expressed belief that by addressing issues such as NPLs, the bankruptcy act, foreign exchange regulations and other regulatory constraints, the government will be paving the way for the banking system to better serve Bangladesh businesses and population.
The IFC, as the largest global private sector development bank, is fully committed to continue to work with the Bangladesh government and the private sector here in this endeavor, he continued.
"Bangladesh is a priority country for the IFC. We have been a long-standing partner and plan to continue to play a major role in this pivotal phase of Bangladesh's development journey. Over the last six years, we have committed about $250 million in climate investments in Bangladesh."
The IFC has invested in excess of $2 billion over the past five years, he noted, adding they plan to double the investments. "We are committed to supporting market diversification beyond RMG and ensuring that Bangladesh is the next Asian Tiger."
At the event, Atiqul Islam, mayor of the Dhaka North City Corporation, said, Bangladesh is now the best place to invest in.
"We have taken many initiatives. We will change the whole city of Dhaka with the introduction of electric buses."
The city corporation has created a new trend by introducing green bonds, he maintains, adding, "We have undertaken various green projects including canals, eco parks. We want foreign investment in these projects."
As the chief guest of the concluding session, Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal said Bangladesh's growth potential is now recognised worldwide as the country is forecasted to be the 25th largest economy in the world by 2035.
"In fact, we aspire to be a rich nation like the G-20 countries by 2041," the minister said.
Terming Bangladesh "an ideal destination for foreign investments", he said the country offers liberal investment policies and attractive packages to the investors.
"We also offer generous tax holidays and other fiscal packages. Long-term lease-able plots are available in special economic zones," he added.
Bangladesh gets $2.7b investment proposals as summit ends
The investors include Saudi Arabia’s Engineering Dimension, Bangladeshi United Group and Turkish Aygaz
Saudi Arabian company Engineering Dimensions will invest $1.5b to Bangladesh.
Chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Sirajul Islam confirmed the news to The Business Standard.
The Saudi company will jointly invest in two companies in Bangladesh.
The Engineering Dimensions will invest in sugar, fertilizer and beverage industries in Chittagong along with Dipan Engineering. It will also set up a large scale cement factory with Titas Enterprise.
Saudi company to invest $1.75B in Bangladesh
Saudi Arabian company Engineering Dimensions will invest $1.75 billion in Bangladesh. Chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Sirajul Islam confirmed the news to The Business Standard. The Saudi company will jointly invest in two companies in Bangladesh. Engineering...
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The Greek labour market is going to open for Bangladeshi workers soon as both countries sign a letter of interest on safe migration to the Mediterranean country.
The letter was signed on Monday after a meeting between Bangladesh Expatriate Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Imran Ahmed and Greek Minister for Migration and Asylum Notis Mitarachi at Athens, read a press release of the foreign ministry.
The proposed memorandum of understanding (MoU) would be finalised by next January and it will be signed during his visit to Dhaka in February, the Greek Minister hoped.
The ministers hoped that upon signing the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on "Employment of Bangladeshi Workers in Greece" between the two countries, it will open new opportunities for Bangladeshi workers in numerous labour-intensive sectors in Greece. With this, workers can move to Greece safely at a low cost.
At the meeting, the ministers discussed opening up the Greek labour market for Bangladeshi workers and preventing human trafficking by facilitating legal immigration.
They said if the workers were given legal access to Greece, human trafficking can be stopped to a larger extent.
"The Greek government amended its law on foreign workers in September this year to issue five-year visas to meet the huge demand for migrant workers in Greece's agriculture, tourism, ready-made garment and other sectors. With this, employment opportunities have been created for migrant workers there," read the release.
Around 80,000 Bangladeshi expatriates living in Greece, according to an unofficial estimate.
Many of them are staying there illegally. Some 30,000 Bangladeshis are primarily engaged in the agriculture, hospitality and RMG sectors in Greece.
Sheikh Muhammad Refat Ali, deputy secretary (employment), expatriate welfare and overseas employment ministry, told TBS, "If the MoU is signed between Greece and Bangladesh, the recruitment of workers thru formal channels will start. Still, there is no agreement on hiring workers between both countries."
Earlier in the day, expatriate minister Imran Ahmed addressed the concluding ceremony of a basic training program on cooking for expatriate Bangladeshis and handed over certificates to the successful.
Bangladesh mission in Greece is providing skills development training to Bangladeshis with a Greek training institute, helping them get better jobs there.
Later, the minister met with the Greek Minister for Citizen Protection (Interior) Panagiotis Theodorikakos in his office.
During the meeting, the two ministers discussed issues related to the interests of the two countries, including the security of expatriate Bangladeshis, timely immunisation, and legalisation.
Among others, Expatriate Welfare Ministry Secretary Dr Ahmed Munirus Saleheen, Bangladesh Ambassador to Greece Ashud Ahmed were present in the meeting.
The minister is visiting Greece to oversee the progress of works for setting up a school named "Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Centennial School" in the Mujib Borsho.
The people concerned think the school will play a significant role in spreading Bangabandhu's ideologies, Bangladesh's history, heritage and culture, mother language in Greece.
Greek labour market to open for Bangladeshi workers soon
The proposed MoU would be signed during his visit to Dhaka in February next, the Greek Minister for Migration says
The government is now exploring new alternative labour markets, given the fragile future of jobs in the Middle East, said Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen on Wednesday.
"Around 1.22 crore Bangladeshi migrant workers are currently employed abroad. Most of them are working in the Middle East. But the employment situation in the Gulf region will not remain favourable in the future. So, we are trying to send workers to alternative labour markets," the foreign minister said while addressing a programme on Bangladesh's diplomatic success over the last 50 years since independence, organised by Bangabandhu Foundation in the capital.
For example, the government has completed all processes to send 10,000 workers to Romania as an alternative market, Abdul Momen said.
He also said the government has taken up all long-term initiatives to implement the roadmap charted out by the prime minister. One of her big moves is to create job opportunities for the people at home and abroad.
The foreign minister said, "To boost the economy, we have launched two packages. One is economic diplomacy and another is for increasing exports."
The country's export volume has now reached around $40 billion from only $12 billion in 2009, he also said, adding, "We want to increase it all the more."
Abdul Momen said they will brand Bangladesh as a land of opportunities all over the world. If investments go up, so will employment opportunities.
The return on investment in Bangladesh is the highest in the region, he noted.
"We are informing big foreign companies about the investment-friendly environment in our country. We are also working on investment proposals that we got even in the pandemic time," the foreign minister said.
Looking for alternatives to Middle East for manpower exports: Foreign minister
The country’s export volume has now reached around $40 billion from only $12 billion in 2009
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The Spanish government has expressed interest in investing in Bangladesh Railway. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has also been proposed by the country's Minister of Transport, Mobility, and Urban Agenda.
Raquel Sanchez Jimenez, Spain's Transport Minister, made the proposal during a meeting with a Bangladeshi delegation, led by Railways Minister Nurul Islam Sujan. The meeting took place in the Ministry of Transport Mobility and Urban Agenda in Paseo de la Castellana on Tuesday (November 30).
Nurul Islam Sujan discussed Bangladesh's recent economic progress as well as various railway plans at the bilateral meeting, which was held for the first time at the ministerial level between the two countries.
Spain should invest in Bangladesh Railway, the minister said.
The Spanish Transport Minister responded by praising Bangladesh's recent economic progress and expressing an interest in learning more about the country's railway sector.
Jimenez expressed immediate interest in cooperating in Bangladesh's railway sector after Sujan elaborated on the master plan for its development. She proposed signing an MoU to get things started.
The meeting also discussed funding for a 264km railway line connecting Dhaka and Payra, as well as several future projects, Spain's specialised investment scheme, and bilateral issues.
Spain keen to invest in Bangladesh Railway
The Spanish government has expressed interest in investing in Bangladesh Railway. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has also been proposed by the country's Minister of Transport, Mobility, and Urban Agenda.
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Russian delegation paid a courtesy visit to army's chief of the general staff.
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Bangladesh, India and Nepal have decided to go ahead with a regional motor vehicles agreement without Bhutan as the country pulled out of the deal.
A tripartite meeting of the Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal (BBIN) Motor Vehicles Agreement in Delhi came up with the decision on 27 November, Md Nazrul Islam, secretary of Road Transport and Highways Division, told The Business Standard.
"There was no conclusive decision about the enforcement date of the pact. Officials of the three countries will hold some more talks to finalise everything," he added.
The pact was signed on 15 June 2015, in the Bhutanese capital Thimphu to facilitate the cross-border movement of passenger and cargo vehicles. Later, the three countries ratified the agreement while Bhutan backed out.
Subsequently, India had been talking about implementing the pact without Bhutan. According to India, Bhutan could be added to the arrangements anytime if it agrees in future.
Though Bangladesh, India and Nepal earlier agreed on most of the provisions of the draft cargo protocol, the three neighbours could not get to the point over issues such as the weight of the cargo, introducing bank guarantees against cargo freights, and the amount of goods a country can transport through others.
According to officials, India wanted the movement of heavy freight trailers, but Bangladesh opposed it citing its weak infrastructure. The Indian side then proposed limited freight services at the beginning, while Dhaka said it would decide its position later after discussions with experts and stakeholders.
Under the cargo protocol, Bangladesh sought a bank guarantee provision for cargo freights. But India suggested that financial transactions be kept only under customs bonds. However, the meeting finally agreed on the inclusion of bank guarantees in the protocol.
Regarding passenger protocol, Bangladesh proposed establishing Dhaka-Siliguri-Gangtok and Bangladesh-Assam routes, which India agreed to. India also agreed to Bangladesh's proposal to include another two routes to the passenger protocol.
Nepal suggested that the countries have authority in levying charges and approving passengers and cargo movements into their respective territories.
Kathmandu sought a charge and levy waiver on Nepalese cargo. Nepal opposed a fixed cargo transport for all. It said each of the three countries would decide how much cargo they would allow being transported from the neighbours.
Officials at the commerce ministry and the road transport ministry said the transit of the protocol was tailored in line with the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. Transit under the BBIN protocol will begin after the signing of a Standard of Procedure (SoP) similar to the transit agreement with India for use of Mongla and Chattogram ports. The countries will be performing as respective permit issuance authorities.
In 2017, the Bhutanese parliament decided to opt out of the BBIN agreement for the time being but consented to the other three going ahead. The trial run of the Bangladesh-India-Nepal bus service was conducted in 2018.
Two buses carrying around 45 delegates from the three countries and the Asian Development Bank left Dhaka for Kathmandu via India.
In March this year at a secretary-level Bangladesh-India meeting in Dhaka, Bangladesh highlighted some "futile regional deals". Dhaka also sought Delhi's greater role in reactivating and re-energising the pacts.
BBIN motor vehicle pact to go ahead without Bhutan
An official says there will be more talks to finalise the regional transport deal
Bangladesh has completed all the preparations for Dhaka-Toronto direct flights, said state minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Md Mahbub Ali, reports UNB.
"All kinds of cooperation from the Canadian high commission in Dhaka in operating the Dhaka-Toronto flight is highly needed," Mahbub Ali added.
The Canadian high commissioner said the Dhaka-Toronto direct flight link will enhance all kinds of trade relations between Bangladesh and France. "We hope to launch the Dhaka-Toronto flight soon."
He also said the Canadian high commission in Dhaka is ready to extend all sorts of cooperation in this regard.
Civil Aviation and Tourism secretary Md Mokammel Hossain, additional secretary Jananendra Nath Sarkar and commercial counselor of the Canadian high commission Angelina Dark were present at the event.
'Dhaka-Toronto direct flights to launch soon'
The Canadian high commissioner said the Dhaka-Toronto direct flight link will enhance all kinds of trade relations between Bangladesh and France.
en.prothomalo.com
Malaysia is going to recruit security guards from Bangladesh, the second country after Nepal that has so far been allowed to send people to the Southeast Asian nation for the sector.
Bangladesh's Sena Kalyan Sangstha and Malaysian Security Industry Association (PIKM) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in this regard at the Bangladesh High Commission in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday.
"Actually, there was an MoU signed in 2018, but security guards from Bangladesh could not be recruited in Malaysia as the then Mahathir Mohamad-led government had imposed a ban on recruitment from Bangladesh," a foreign ministry official told The Daily Star yesterday.
The development comes when Bangladesh and Malaysia are discussing the signing of a new deal and starting recruitment, which was frozen following allegations of high recruitment cost that led to forced labour in the past.
Malaysia, which faces shortage of security guards, wanted to recruit from Bangladesh, Indonesia and the Philippines. The PIKM, an association of the agencies that recruit security guards, has chosen Bangladesh because they liked the training and efficiency of Bangladeshis, he said.
The official said Sena Kalyan Sangstha has both a training facility and international recruiting agency licence for efficiently handling the training and recruitment jobs.
He said details of the recruitment mode, benefits and exact starting time of recruitment have yet to be finalised. However, he said the recruitment will start soon as there is an acute shortage of security guards in Malaysia.
PIKM President Ramli Yusuff told Malaysian online news portal Malaysiakini that the Malaysian home ministry recently said it might consider bringing in guards from Bangladesh, Indonesia and the Philippines.
From PIKM, they recommended only Bangladesh because they first came to Bangladesh in 2018 and signed the MoU with Sena Kalyan Sangstha, a trust owned and operated by Bangladesh Army.
"When we [PIKM] went there to see their training school, we saw how they were trained for three months, we felt that they were the best option," Ramili said.
Ramli also said PIKM has urged the Malaysian government to expedite approvals as there has been a shortage of security guards due to departures since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic last year.
He said while the Nepali security guards are permitted to work here for up to 10 years, many of them had requested to return home and the shortage was made worse with the freeze on new intakes for all migrant workers.
"We used to have around 40,000 Nepali guards but are now down to between 10,000 and 15,000.
"So in order to fill up the empty quota, we want the government to bring in Bangladeshi guards," he said.
Ramli, however, declined to comment when asked for a cost comparison between bringing in security guards from Nepal and Bangladesh, stating that it was a "subjective matter" which is still under negotiation.
He also insisted that locals are not keen to fill up the vacancies, much like in other "dirty, dangerous and difficult" sectors that are also reliant on migrant labour, Malaysiakini reports.
Malaysia to recruit security guards from Bangladesh
Malaysia is going to recruit security guards from Bangladesh, the second country after Nepal that has so far been allowed to send people to the Southeast Asian nation for the sector.
