Dhaka: Seeking fair, predictable, and transparent conditions for European companies, European Union (EU) Ambassador and Head of Delegation to Bangladesh Michael Miller emphasized that Airbus has an 'incredibly competitive offer' which should be taken 'very seriously' by Bangladesh. Ambassador Miller highlighted the need for a level playing field in public procurement decisions, allowing economic operators to compete on commercial merit.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the EU envoy's comments came in response to a query about fair competition between Airbus and Boeing. The EU Ambassador, alongside his French counterpart Jean-Marc S©r©-Charlet and other EU representatives, discussed non-tariff barriers and regulatory issues with Bangladeshi government officials, aiming to enhance Bangladesh-EU trade and investment. Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir and other senior officials shared the government's progress in tackling these challenges.
Meanwhile, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir dismissed suggestions of US pressure influencing Bangladesh's decision to purchase additional Boeing aircraft. Kobir cited the country's aviation needs, including fleet expansion and route servicing, as the primary reasons for the purchase. In April, Bangladesh signed a significant $3.7 billion deal with Boeing for 14 planes, marking the airline's largest order to date. US President Donald Trump expressed his support for Boeing, assuring Prime Minister Tarique Rahman of the aircraft's reliability.
The EU envoy also called for the removal of non-tariff barriers and the establishment of fair and transparent conditions to deepen Bangladesh-EU trade relations. Ambassador Miller praised the government's efforts in fostering a reliable partnership with the EU, stressing the importance of transparency and non-discrimination in business dealings.
Miller noted the critical role of transparency and fairness in negotiations for new agreements, including a free trade and investment protection agreement with the EU. He emphasized that such agreements require validation from EU member states, which would boost investor confidence and European investment in Bangladesh.
European ambassadors in Dhaka reiterated the necessity of fair conditions for European companies to thrive in Bangladesh, highlighting the potential for increased European trade and investment as Bangladesh approaches LDC graduation. The French Ambassador expressed commitment to supporting Bangladesh's economic modernization and strengthening EU-Bangladesh economic ties, aiming to position the country as a competitive business destination globally.