Sylhet: President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today called upon local businessmen and expatriates to make greater investments in Sylhet's tourism, tea, fisheries, industries, and other sectors. 'Sylhet has huge potential in tourism, tea, fisheries, and industries. The hills, rivers, waterfalls, tea gardens, forests, and haors here together make Sylhet one of the major tourism regions of Bangladesh. I believe there are opportunities to develop these potentials further,' he said.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the President made these remarks at a civic reception organized by Sylhet City Corporation at the City Corporation ground this afternoon. President's spouse Rahat Ara Begum was also present at the event. He emphasized the need for expatriates and capable individuals to invest in these sectors, expressing optimism that such investments would significantly boost the local tourism industry.
Highlighting the potential of the tea industry, the President remarked that Sylhet's tea gardens are renowned not only in Bangladesh but globally, which positions Sylhet as a leader in tea production. He also mentioned his recent meeting with the Pakistan High Commissioner, noting that Pakistan is interested in importing tea from Sylhet, which underscores the importance of coordinated export efforts.
The President identified substantial opportunities in fish farming, particularly in the haors, and suggested that the region's mineral resources could support the establishment of large industries. He urged small entrepreneurs to capitalize on the potential offered by expatriate investment, energy, agriculture, industry, tourism, and other sectors.
Acknowledging the contribution of Sylhet's expatriate community, the President commended their significant role in bolstering both Sylhet's and Bangladesh's economy. He called for unity and cooperation to safeguard democracy, emphasizing the need to rebuild the nation, strengthen democratic processes, and ensure a sustainable environment for future generations.
Reaffirming Bangladesh's commitment to communal harmony, the President noted the coexistence of diverse religious communities as a defining characteristic of the country. He concluded by assuring the people of Sylhet of his continued support and cooperation.
Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir, Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury, Jatiya Sangsad Whip Alhaj Md GK Gaus, Bangladesh Ambassador to Mexico M. Mushfiqul Fazal (Ansarey), and Sylhet City Corporation administrator Abdul Quiyum Choudhury, among others, also addressed the gathering.