DHAKA, A delegation of Commonwealth of Independent States-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CIS-BCCI), led by its President Mohammad Ali Deen along with newly-elected Board of Directors, today met State Minister for Planning Md. Shahiduzzaman Sarker at his office at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the capital. CIS-BCCI President briefed the State Minister about various activities of the CIS-BCCI Chamber for promoting the trade and economic cooperation between Bangladesh and CIS Countries including Russia in a bid to diversify the export market to a third destination, said a press release here. Deen, however, pointed out that at present the main impediment in business transaction between Bangladesh and CIS countries is banking channel and emphasized that Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Commerce and Bangladesh Bank may take appropriate steps for streamlining financial and banking cooperation between Russia and other CIS countries and Bangladesh. He further emphasized on carrying forward object ives of the two protocols signed at IGC (Inter-Governmental Commission) meetings between Bangladesh and Russia. He especially mentioned about mutual regulatory Cooperation, harmonization of trade rules and setting up necessary infrastructures including warehouses and distribution network. The State Minister for Planning appreciated the role of CIS-BCCI and emphasized on exploring huge market of CIS countries including Russia to enhance the export basket and competitiveness. He assured of providing support from his ministry in this respect. Shahiduzzaman also suggested for a detailed action plan, both short-term and long-term, for augmenting trade links with CIS countries. President of CIS-BCCI informed that CIS-BCCI works as a South Asian Partner of ROSSCONGRESS that organizes the mega economic event every year. This year also CIS-BCCI is hopeful to join SPIEF scheduled to be held during June 5-8, 2024 and requested the State Minister to participate if invitation in received from SPIEF. Along side the President of CIS-BCCI, its vice-president Jadab Debnath, directors Abdul Latif Sarker, Md. Enamul Haque, Khan Md. Iqbal, adviser Mahbub Islam Runu and secretary of the Chamber Mustafa Mohiuddin were present, among others, on the occasion. Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha