Dhaka:Bangladesh has sought support from the Netherlands to advance a proposed free trade agreement with the European Union and to expand trade benefits in the European market following its graduation from the least developed country category.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Commerce, Industries and Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir made this request during a bilateral meeting with Dutch Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation Sjoerd Sjoerdsma. The meeting took place at the Ministry of Commerce, where they also discussed potential joint initiatives in various sectors such as agricultural technology, jute, and renewable energy to strengthen economic ties.
Minister Muktadir emphasized the longstanding friendship between the two countries, highlighting opportunities to enhance economic partnerships through technology transfer and sustainable investments. He pointed out the importance of maintaining export competitiveness in Europe, one of Bangladesh's vital markets, and called for institutional support to ensure long-term market access.
Discussions also covered the agricultural sector, with Muktadir expressing interest in Dutch expertise to improve agricultural productivity and explore new markets. The jute sector was another focus, with potential for Dutch assistance in developing improved jute seeds and expanding environmentally friendly product offerings.
Dutch Minister Sjoerdsma showed interest in expanding cooperation in sectors like food processing, maritime transport, and renewable energy. The meeting also explored potential collaborations with Dutch technology company Stamicarbon to enhance Bangladesh's fertiliser production capacity and discussed port infrastructure development and water management initiatives.
The meeting was attended by Commerce Secretary Md Ataur Rahman Khan, Dutch Ambassador to Bangladesh Joris van Bommel, and other delegation members.