Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir today reaffirmed the government's commitment to addressing the European Union's concerns, improving the investment climate, and removing trade barriers as Bangladesh prepares for a future Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU and its graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category.
Meeting with EU Ambassador
Muktadir made the remarks during a meeting with EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller at the Planning Commission in Agargaon. The two sides discussed strengthening bilateral trade, increasing investment, removing non-tariff barriers (NTBs), and advancing preparations for a Bangladesh-EU FTA.
Addressing EU Concerns
The government has already made significant progress in addressing issues raised by the EU and is committed to fulfilling all international obligations, the minister said. "The government considers all concerns and expectations of the EU with great importance, and we are working to resolve them one by one," he said.
Creating a Conducive Environment
Muktadir said the government is creating a more conducive environment for foreign investment by reducing trade barriers and strengthening international confidence in Bangladesh's economy. He expressed optimism that ongoing reforms would help establish a favorable investment climate, resolve energy-related challenges, eliminate trade obstacles, and improve the efficiency of state-owned industries through private sector management, placing the country's economy on a stronger footing.
EU's Formal Proposal
During the meeting, EU Ambassador Michael Miller said the European Union is ready to begin exploratory discussions on an FTA with Bangladesh and has already submitted a formal proposal to the government. He emphasized the need for timely reforms, removal of non-tariff barriers, and further improvements to the business environment to facilitate progress in future negotiations.
Senior Officials Present
Senior government officials, including Internal Resources Division Secretary Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky, Commerce Secretary Md. Ataur Rahman Khan, and Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce Ayesha Akhter, were present at the meeting.
