Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday emphasized the need for increased US investment and stronger economic connections with Bangladesh during discussions with US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, Sergio Gor. The talks covered a range of topics, including bilateral relations, trade, the Rohingya crisis, and other mutual interests.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the meeting took place in a cordial setting at the Prime Minister's Office in Tejgaon, commencing at 9:30 am. PM's Deputy Press Secretary Shahadat Shadhin noted the positive atmosphere of the discussions. Sergio Gor commended Prime Minister Rahman's leadership, highlighting the return of stability to Bangladesh under his guidance.
A notable outcome of the meeting was the United States' decision to positively revise its travel advisory for Bangladesh, a move seen as a positive signal to American investors regarding the country's readiness for investment. The dialogue also touched upon an upcoming visit by a delegation from the US-Bangladesh Business Council to Bangladesh next month.
Further discussions involved enhancing collaboration between Bangladesh and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Gor assured the Prime Minister of his support in resuming FDA inspection activities in Bangladesh. The conversation also delved into investment prospects through the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC).
Prime Minister Rahman encouraged the United States to maintain its investment momentum in Bangladesh, particularly in sectors like warehousing, soybean, cotton, and wheat, which could bolster a robust and competitive supply chain. Special Envoy Gor expressed Washington's positive stance on expanding DFC investment cooperation in the country and mentioned the interest of US investors in organizing a US Investor Summit in Dhaka.
The Prime Minister also underscored Bangladesh's keen interest in attracting US investment in the information technology sector. Gor acknowledged Bangladesh's potential in IT and suggested the possibility of the country becoming a partner in the Pax Silica initiative, promising to take steps in this direction.
The Rohingya crisis was another focal point of the discussions. Gor, who visited the Rohingya camps in Cox's Bazar on Friday, lauded Bangladesh's efforts in providing shelter and humanitarian aid to the displaced Myanmar nationals. He emphasized the necessity of a swift, sustainable, and political resolution to the crisis, advocating for coordinated efforts involving ASEAN, neighboring countries, and other relevant stakeholders.
The meeting was attended by Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman, State Minister Shama Obaed, Prime Minister's Adviser on Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir, PM's advisers Rehan Asif Asad, Mahadi Amin, and Bangladesh Ambassador to the United States Tareq Ariful Islam, among others. US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen was also present.
The US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, who arrived in Dhaka on Thursday afternoon for a three-day visit, met with Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman on Thursday evening before visiting the Rohingya camps.