Dhaka:President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has urged Switzerland to enhance its investment and expand bilateral trade with Bangladesh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the President emphasized the need for substantial investment rather than aid, noting the vast potential within Bangladesh. He highlighted that increased investment would generate employment opportunities and facilitate rapid progress for the country.
The President's appeal came during a courtesy call by Swiss Ambassador to Bangladesh Reto Siegfried Renggli at Bangabhaban. President's Press Secretary Md. Sarwar Alam stated that the President praised the contributions of Swiss companies in Bangladesh and emphasized the importance of boosting Swiss investment in various promising sectors.
Additionally, the President expressed admiration for Switzerland's local government system and showed interest in leveraging Swiss experience to enhance the effectiveness of Bangladesh's local government system. The Swiss ambassador assured Bangladesh of Switzerland's support in response to the President's request for cooperation.
The President also acknowledged Switzerland's cooperation in strengthening Bangladesh's democratic institutions and parliamentary activities, expressing hope that the friendly relations between the two countries would open new avenues for investment, trade, and economic cooperation.
Further discussions during the meeting included cooperation on climate change, skills development, cultural exchange, technical education, and research. Present at the meeting were secretaries from the President's Office, the Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Deputy Head of Mission at the Swiss Embassy, Diepak Elmer.