Govt aims to turn challenges into opportunities: Foreign Minister

Despite global economic uncertainties, energy crises and trade pressures, the government has set a goal of transforming challenges into opportunities, Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman has said. He made the remarks at an investment conference at the Sonargaon Hotel in the capital on Saturday morning, June 13.

The conference, titled 'Roadmap for Trade, Growth and Economic Diplomacy', was jointly organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA). Alongside the inaugural session, three separate working sessions were held.

The foreign minister said developing countries are facing new challenges due to the global energy crisis, trade instability and technological changes. However, he said the government's main goal is to turn these challenges into opportunities.

He further said the current energy crisis could be more severe than the two oil shocks of the 1970s, which turned the 1980s into a 'lost decade' for many developing countries.

The minister said the prime minister has a clear vision based on three core goals: stabilise, reform and accelerate development. The main task now is to translate this vision into effective action.

The foreign minister said rebuilding confidence and trust is the most important factor in achieving economic stability. The government is working to establish Bangladesh as a stable and business-friendly destination for domestic and foreign investors alike.

He further said the government's goal is to make Bangladesh one of the most competitive investment destinations in South Asia.

Speaking as a special guest at the event, Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said the government is committed to advancing on the path of development while ensuring the dignity of all citizens. He emphasised economic justice and transparency.

BIDA Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun also spoke at the inaugural session.

Foreign Affairs State Minister Shama Obaed Islam, Prime Minister's Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir and Labour and Employment Adviser Mahdi Amin spoke at the first working session of the conference.

The session, moderated by Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siyam, featured detailed discussions on the relationship between investment and economic diplomacy. Speakers emphasised enhancing engagement, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Foreign Affairs State Minister Shama Obaed Islam said the foreign ministry will work sincerely to attract foreign investors and resolve their problems.

Labour and Employment Adviser Mahdi Amin said the government is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in all its activities.