Bangladesh seeks investment, economic cooperation from EU

Bangladesh has sought trade expansion, investment, and economic cooperation from the European Union (EU), said Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin. Meanwhile, EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller said both sides have opportunities to prosper by addressing existing challenges in trade and investment relations.

The meeting between the adviser and the EU delegation, led by Ambassador Miller, was held at the adviser’s office at the Secretariat on Sunday afternoon, October 12. Both sides discussed in detail various aspects of trade, investment, and economic cooperation between Bangladesh and the European Union.

Trade Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin said the EU is one of Bangladesh’s major trading partners and there are vast possibilities for further expansion. After assessing trade feasibility and analysing commercial data, Bangladesh aims to move forward with a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, followed by a Free Trade Agreement.

Referring to the existing trade gap with Bangladesh, Ambassador Miller said trade plays a vital role in strengthening relations. Both sides have the opportunity to achieve mutual prosperity by overcoming current challenges in trade and investment.

The meeting was also attended by Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman, Spanish Ambassador Gabriel Sistiaga, Danish Ambassador Kristian Briks Muller, Deputy Head of Mission of the French Embassy Frederic Inza, Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy Enja Kristen, Deputy Head of Mission of the Italian Embassy Frederico Zamprelli, Deputy Head of Mission of the Swedish Embassy Eva Smedberg, and EU Delegation to Bangladesh Commerce Adviser Abu Syed Belal.