Dhaka: Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir emphasized that the recently signed trade agreement between Bangladesh and the United States is not set in stone, highlighting the possibility for amendments should the need arise. The minister conveyed this message after a discussion with US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Paul Kapur, at the Commerce Ministry.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the minister clarified that the agreement, which aims to bolster economic, trade, and investment relations, should not be perceived as entirely negative or positive. He noted that the trade volume between the nations surpasses $8.5 billion, with Bangladesh importing approximately $2.75 billion worth of goods from the US, making the US one of Bangladesh’s largest trading partners.
While addressing reporters, the minister mentioned that discussions with Kapur included topics on investment, digital infrastructure, and future economic cooperation, but did not specifically delve into the February 9 trade deal. He reiterated that the agreement was not a focal point of their recent meeting.
Responding to concerns about Bangladesh’s interests in the agreement, the minister stated that all agreements involve mutual benefits for the parties involved. He reassured that any problematic provisions could be revisited, stressing that agreements have built-in mechanisms for review and amendments if necessary. The minister urged stakeholders to remain calm and assured them of the scope for further negotiation if needed.