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‘Success stories of Bangladesh should be highlighted’

FE Report | July 27, 2022 00:00:00


Discussants have laid importance on highlighting success stories that so far Bangladesh achieved along with facing challenges after Ukraine-Russia war.

Their suggestions came Monday at a seminar titled 'Nation Branding: Attracting New Talent & Investment Worldwide'.

The Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) in partnership with Bloomberg LP organised the seminar held at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre.

The Prime Minister's private industry and investment adviser Salman F. Rahman attended the programme as the chief guest.

"From the branding points of views, you obviously have to talk about positive sides and definitely how we will mitigate risks is very important," Mr. Rahman said.

He said before Ukraine war, the country had controlled inflation rate very well.

"In last two to three months, both the inflation and exchange rate are creating challenges and same is the case with the whole world," the adviser said.

He personally feels that the oil prices will come down to the previous level by the end of this year or by the first quarter of the next year.

"Because it's unsustainable. And it's also the issue of demand of supply."

The Prime Minister's adviser said Bangladesh is ranked fifth in the Covid recovery index.

"But who are ranked as the first, second, ..or fourth? These counties have no population more than five million people whereas the Bangladesh has a population of more than 165 million people. From that perspective, I think we are number one in the world in Covid recovery index," Mr. Rahman said.

He said the inauguration of Padma Bridge is a miracle despite many serious people threw challenges that the construction of Padma Bridge is not possible.

"Now the Padma bridge is going to be a game changer. One of the most success stories is that the country saw many growths without having a deep sea port," said Mr. Rahman, adding that the deep sea port in Matarbari will be another game changer.

The senior secretary of Ministry of Foreign Affairs Masud Bin Momen said exploring options and consolidated efforts, among others, are required for nation branding.

"Nation branding strategy is not exactly like corporate or other kind of advertising or PR campaign. ..core marketing concept is useful in articulating the vision for a nation's image," Mr. Masud said.

He said the authorities of investment and promotion, tourism, health, and even the law and enforcement have a role in branding a nation.

The BSEC chairman Prof. Shibli Rubayat Ul Islam said the disruption in supply chain of food and energy has created a serious problem across the world.

"..despite such difficulties, the country has become a role model in development in the eyes of international entities and our persistent rise in economic and social indicators is a miracle," Mr. Islam said.

He said the world's prediction regarding Bangladesh before thirty or forty years ago is now totally wrong.

"The rest of the world knows what is happening in Bangladesh. We have to project Bangladesh properly," said the BSEC chairman and laid importance on facing the challenges.

Andrew Boggs, regional strategy lead, Bloomberg, presented his key note paper at the Monday's seminar.

A panel discussion was also held at the programme participated by local businesses who stressed on reducing trade deficits along with enhancing foreign investments.

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