Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has expressed confidence that collaborative efforts between the government and the business sector could lead to significant improvements in the nation's economy within the next four to five years. He emphasized the necessity of ongoing dialogue to tackle current challenges, underscoring the potential of such partnerships to drive economic progress.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Prime Minister made these remarks following a four-hour meeting with private sector entrepreneurs at the Prime Minister's Office in Tejgaon. Organised by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), the meeting aimed to foster dialogue and devise strategies for economic enhancement.
During the session, the Prime Minister highlighted the government's commitment to national development, stating, "Our goal is to work for the country and its people. There are challenges in some areas, but if we work together, we can overcome them." He acknowledged the mutual understanding between the government and business leaders regarding the existing economic hurdles and reiterated the government's dedication to resolving these issues through continued discussions.
Reflecting on past interactions with business leaders, the Prime Minister noted that several issues raised in previous meetings had been addressed, while new concerns were identified during the current discussion. He announced plans for another meeting with business leaders in the next two to three months to further this collaborative approach, emphasizing that frequent meetings would enhance mutual understanding and problem-solving efficiency.
The deputy press secretary reported that the meeting included comprehensive discussions on business expansion, foreign investment, and creating a favorable environment for industrial growth. Entrepreneurs requested improved credit access, enhanced policy support, and a business-friendly atmosphere, expressing satisfaction with the government's ongoing initiatives.
It was revealed that decisions had been made on 21 out of 28 issues discussed in the previous meeting, with the remaining seven still under review. Business leaders also proposed a roadmap aiming to increase the country's export earnings to USD 100 billion by 2030, with the government promising diplomatic support to achieve this target.
The meeting was attended by high-ranking officials, including Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and Commerce, Industries, Textiles, and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir, among others. Prominent business figures such as Syed Nasim Manzur of Apex Group and Ahsan Khan Chowdhury of PRAN-RFL Group also participated, along with representatives from leading business conglomerates like Incepta, RANGS, and Walton.