Dhaka:Speaker of the Bangladesh Jatiya Sangsad, Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikrom, emphasized the potential role of Singapore in advancing Bangladesh's investment process, particularly in enhancing bilateral economic cooperation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Speaker extended an invitation to Singaporean companies to explore oil and gas opportunities in Bhola and other coastal regions of Bangladesh. This invitation was made during a courtesy call by Singapore's Non-Resident High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Derek Loh, at the Speaker's office in the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban.
The Speaker characterized the relationship between Bangladesh and Singapore as warm and friendly, noting Singapore's status as a significant economic partner for Bangladesh. He lauded Singapore's development and credited the country's prosperity to the visionary leadership of Lee Kuan Yew. Discussing Bangladesh's political history, he mentioned the July mass uprising of 2024, which led to the end of an authoritarian regime and the restoration of a democratic path, culminating in what he described as the fairest and most credible 13th parliamentary election in Bangladesh's history. He remarked that the country's economic progress had been hindered during 17 years of authoritarian rule.
High Commissioner Derek Loh highlighted the importance of prioritizing technical education in Bangladesh to ensure employment for its young workforce. He shared insights on how Singapore bolstered its economy through shipbuilding and suggested that Bangladesh could benefit similarly by expanding its shipbuilding industry and establishing dry docks.
The meeting also delved into discussions on bilateral investment and trade, the expansion of the readymade garment industry, exchanges of parliamentary delegations, activities of the Constitution Amendment Committee, and improvements in educational and public examination standards. Present at the meeting were representatives from the Singapore Embassy, the Secretary of the Bangladesh Parliament Secretariat, and other senior officials.