Dhaka: Shipping and Labour and Employment Adviser Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr. M Shakhawat Hossain has called on the Singaporean government to recruit more experienced Bangladeshi manpower, particularly in the shipping sector. He made this appeal during a bilateral meeting with Singapore's Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-Charge of Trade Relations, Grace Fu, at her commerce ministry office.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Shakhawat highlighted the increasing number of skilled mariners graduating from both public and private marine academies in Bangladesh each year. He emphasized that these professionals could significantly contribute to Singapore's shipping sector, while their employment would also help boost Bangladesh's foreign currency earnings.
The adviser further noted Bangladesh's global recognition in the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) industry and emphasized the high international demand for Bangladeshi apparel and jute products. He extended an invitation to Singapore to consider importing these goods.
Minister Grace Fu, referring to Bangladesh as a "genuine friend," reiterated Singapore's commitment to signing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Bangladesh to address the trade imbalance and strengthen bilateral trade ties. She also pledged Singapore's support in the development of Bangladesh's human resources.
Dr. Shakhawat invited Singapore to invest in various promising sectors in Bangladesh, including shipping, RMG, pharmaceuticals, leather, ceramics, and jute goods. He particularly urged Singapore to consider investing in the construction of an international-standard dockyard or shipyard at the under-construction Matarbari deep sea port.
Additionally, the Adviser requested that Singapore ease the issuance of transit or work visas for Bangladeshi sailors and extend cooperation in training personnel involved in port management. Senior officials from both countries were present at the meeting.