Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has urged increased investment from US companies across various sectors, particularly emphasizing power, energy, ICT, and infrastructure. During a meeting with a US-Bangladesh Business Council delegation, she highlighted Bangladesh’s open Foreign Direct Investment policies and the mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries. Hasina expressed her hope that US companies would continue supporting Bangladesh’s growth, noting the country’s commitment to sustainable long-term development and its vision of becoming a Smart Bangladesh by 2041.
She assured the delegation of a favorable policy framework to enhance the business and investment climate, mentioning initiatives like the US-Bangladesh Energy Taskforce and Digital Economy Task Force. She highlighted Bangladesh’s investment-friendly climate, citing liberalized policies, foreign ownership allowances, tax exemptions, and the establishment of economic zones and technology parks.
Infrastructure projects like the Padma Bridge, Matarbari Deep Sea Port, and metro-rail expansion were noted as pivotal for external connectivity and internal trade. With a population of 170 million and strategic location, Bangladesh’s potential as a trade and investment hub was underscored. Hasina emphasized the country’s strengths, including a skilled workforce of around 55 million youths.
Highlighting Bangladesh’s remarkable progress, she mentioned the reduction of poverty rates and the steady increase in per capita income. With aspirations to become a high-income nation by 2041, she stressed the significance of achieving self-sufficiency in various sectors and creating an attractive investment environment.
The prime minister expressed confidence that the congenial atmosphere in Bangladesh would encourage US businesses to invest. She acknowledged the growth of state-of-the-art manufacturing sectors in the country and welcomed the visit of the US delegation as a positive sign of expanding business ties.
In conclusion, she called for elevating the friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries through increased trade and commerce. Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi, PM’s Energy Adviser Dr. Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury, and other dignitaries were present during the meeting. The President of the US-Bangladesh Business Council, as well as business executives from both countries, also shared their perspectives.
In a separate address, the prime minister highlighted the importance of nurturing the partnership between Bangladesh and the USA to achieve new heights in trade and commerce. The delegation’s visit was seen as a significant step towards strengthening business ties.
