St. John's:Acting Foreign Minister Humaiun Kobir has called on developed Commonwealth countries to maintain preferential trade treatment for members transitioning from least developed country (LDC) status. This appeal aims to facilitate a smooth socioeconomic transition for these nations.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Kobir made this appeal during the Executive Session of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda, on November 3. The foreign ministry released a press statement this morning detailing his address.
Leading the Bangladesh delegation, Kobir emphasized the importance of sustaining preferential access in intra-Commonwealth trade for countries moving from LDC to developing country status. He pointed out challenges to uninterrupted supply chains and trade among Commonwealth nations, urging for collective efforts to harness the vast trade potential within the group.
The session, hosted at the American University of Antigua Conference Center, gathered heads of government, foreign ministers, and delegation leaders from the Commonwealth's 56 member states. Discussions included proposals to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, and private sector financing, as well as greater coherence in the international monetary, financial, and trading systems.
Additionally, Commonwealth leaders suggested forming stronger climate finance partnerships and increasing support for youth skills development and entrepreneurship. Kobir was granted full cabinet ministerial status to lead the Bangladesh delegation and fulfill the duties of the foreign minister during the 28th CHOGM, which takes place in Antigua and Barbuda from November 1 to 4.