Dhaka: Bangladesh has extended an invitation to US businesses to invest in water supply, waste management, and renewable energy projects under the public-private partnership (PPP) model, as stated by State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development (LGRD), and Co-operatives Mir Shahe Alam. He made these remarks following a meeting between LGRD and Co-operatives Minister Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan and US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the state minister noted that while the meeting was primarily a courtesy call, both parties discussed government policies and the ministry’s progress over the last six months. “Water supply, waste management, and renewable energy are areas where we have identified opportunities for US investment under the PPP model,” Alam highlighted.
US Ambassador Christensen expressed interest in advancing the discussions officially, as per Shahe Alam. The meeting also explored ways to enhance the current friendly relations between Bangladesh and the US, with both the minister and ambassador agreeing to strengthen these ties further.
The state minister affirmed that both governments would collaborate moving forward, emphasizing the encouragement for US businesses to invest in the identified sectors through the PPP framework. Further discussions between officials from both countries are anticipated at the secretary level and with other relevant authorities.
Addressing inquiries about potential renewable energy projects, Shahe Alam mentioned waste-to-energy as a possible area of focus. He highlighted the significant quantities of waste produced in city corporations nationwide, presenting opportunities for such projects.
He referenced an ongoing collaboration involving a Chinese company and Dhaka North City Corporation, where the company plans to generate approximately 40 MW of electricity from waste for the national grid within 18 to 20 months. “Projects of this type in renewable energy are areas where our ministry can work with potential investors,” he commented.
Shahe Alam clarified that trade agreements between Bangladesh and the US were not part of the discussions, as such matters are managed by the foreign affairs and commerce ministries. “Our discussion was mainly focused on local government-related issues,” he concluded.