FBCCI, EU seek to boost trade ties

The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their commitment to bolster trade relations between Bangladesh and the EU, reports UNB.

EU Ambassador Charles Whiteley and FBCCI President Mahbubul Alam expressed their commitment during a courtesy meeting held at the FBCCI office at Gulshan in Dhaka on Monday, said a media release.

FBCCI President Mahbubul Alam expressed his gratitude to the EU for their support during the Covid-19 pandemic.

He also conveyed his sincere appreciation to the EU for providing an additional three-year transition period for Bangladesh to enjoy EBA facilities until 2029, it reads.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh's diplomatic relations with the European Union, underscoring the enduring commitment to friendship between the two regions, said Mahbubul Alam.

He highlighted the EU's significance as the largest export destination for Bangladesh, accounting for approximately 45% of Bangladesh's total exports in 2022-23, particularly in the readymade garments (RMG) and frozen food sectors.

FBCCI head lauded the EU's dedication to climate action in Bangladesh and its support for investment in environmentally friendly technologies. This support encompasses climate-smart infrastructures, renewable energy, resilient supply chains, improved water management, human resource management, coastal barriers, industrial pollution control, and food security, it reads.

Furthermore, he called upon the EU to ensure that the proposed carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) considers the needs of developing countries like Bangladesh to secure GSP+ status.

Mahbubul sought the EU's guidance in formulating and implementing carbon reduction policies.

The business leader expressed his appreciation for the EU's humanitarian assistance to Rohingya refugees and sought EU support in repatriating them to Myanmar.

EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Whiteley conveyed his greetings and best wishes to Mahbubul on his presidency of FBCCI and reiterated the EU's commitment to enhancing bilateral relations between Bangladesh and the European Union.

Ambassador Whiteley further mentioned

the EU's active collaboration with the

government of Bangladesh on youth skill development and addressing climate change-related issues.

FBCCI Vice President Khairul Huda Chopol, Mohammad Anwar Sadat Sarker, Shomi Kaiser, Md. Munir Hossain, Directors and other dignitaries were present at the meeting.