Dhaka: Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain today asserted that Bangladesh's ties with Europe would remain unaffected by any aircraft purchase decisions, dismissing the German ambassador's comments that choosing Boeing over Airbus might influence EU-Bangladesh relations and GSP-related discussions. "I do not believe our overall relations will be affected by a commercial deal," he remarked while addressing a journalist's question at the foreign ministry this afternoon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Adviser emphasized that ambassadors naturally promote their countries' commercial interests, but Bangladesh would make procurement decisions based solely on expert evaluation and national needs. "Any ambassador will naturally try to promote his country's products. That is normal and part of his responsibility. He has fulfilled his responsibility," Touhid Hossain stated. He added that Bangladesh would not succumb to external pressure or commentary in its decision-making process.
Earlier, German Ambassador Rdiger Lotz, speaking at the DCAB Talk organized by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB), indicated that Bangladesh's withdrawal from its 'commitment' to purchase Airbus aircraft would have an impact on trade relations with Europe. The ambassador stressed the significance of predictability in commercial dealings and noted that Europe closely observes Bangladesh's significant procurement decisions.
Addressing concerns about whether Dhaka's decision not to buy Airbus aircraft could affect bilateral economic ties, the ambassador emphasized Germany's role as a major economic partner to Bangladesh. He highlighted that reliability in business relations is crucial and that commercial choices often influence broader policy environments. "Airbus produces an excellent product, though I am not here as an airline industry representative. Decisions like GSP negotiations can influence the atmosphere," he said, acknowledging that procurement choices inevitably impact the overall mood of bilateral relations.
The ambassador reiterated that while Bangladesh is fully sovereign in making its procurement decisions, business choices naturally affect diplomatic perceptions. He assured that Germany intends to maintain close business relations with Bangladesh, as it serves mutual interests.
An ongoing rivalry between US-based Boeing and Europe's Airbus continues as both compete for Bangladesh's national flag carrier, Biman's upcoming aircraft procurement. Biman's Techno-Financial Committee is currently reviewing proposals from both aviation giants-Airbus's offer of 10 A350 wide-body and four A320neo narrow-body aircraft, and Boeing's offer of 10 787 Dreamliners and four 737 MAX jets.