Sylhet:Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir has defended the agreement concerning the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) at Chattogram Port, stating it is intended to boost the terminal's capacity and efficiency.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Muktadir addressed concerns by clarifying that the agreement with Dubai-based DP World is for a fixed 15-year term, after which Bangladesh has the option to renew or terminate it. He dismissed claims that the deal was a 'sell-out' as baseless.
The minister made these comments in response to journalists at an event organized by Sylhet City Corporation for Durga Puja, following criticism from various parties after the agreement's signing on Thursday.
He emphasized the necessity for Bangladesh to make its production and export costs competitive in order to attract both foreign and domestic investments. Muktadir asserted that improving operational efficiency at Chattogram Port is crucial for achieving this objective.
The minister assured that no current employees at the port would lose their jobs. Instead, he highlighted that enhanced efficiency would lead to better benefits for workers, including higher wages.