CCCI chief seeks duty-free access of BD items to Iraq

CHITTAGONG, Dec 21: Iraqi Ambassador in Bangladesh Shakir Quasem Mahdi al Kaffaf visited the World Trade Centre (WTC) in the port-city on Sunday and held a view exchange meeting with CCCI president Mahbubul Alam.

Mr Alam welcomed the envoy in the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), housed in WTC, and said Chittagong is important for its geographical location and natural port. The port-city, with direct communication facilities, has immense importance in the regional trade.

He also said Bangladesh's skilled and trustworthy workforce can be utilized in the reconstruction of war-ravaged Iraq.

The CCCI chief sought duty-free access of Bangladeshi products, such as readymade garments (RMG), pharmaceutical items, ceramic, jute and jute goods, leather and shrimps, to Iraqi market, which will boost bilateral relation between the brotherly countries.

The Iraqi ambassador said Bangladeshi products have good demand in Iraq for their quality of standard and low cost. But the desired output is yet to be gained from their export, as there is no direct commercial relation between the countries.

He sought all-out cooperation from local business community in sorting out problems that stand on establishing the direct commercial relation that can ensure greater bondage and bilateral ties.

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