A high-level government delegation from Bangladesh has requested Washington to provide funding from the International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) for preferential access of Bangladeshi products to the US market and for infrastructure development in Bangladesh, as well as increased US investment and technology transfer in Bangladesh’s manufacturing sector.
Bangladesh made the request at the second High-Level Economic Consultation (HLEC) meeting between the two countries held at the US State Department in Washington DC on Thursday (June 2nd), according to a press release issued by Bangladesh Mission in Washington.
The day-long meeting was co-chaired by Salman F Rahman, MP, Private Industry and Investment Advisor to the Prime Minister, and Jose W Fernandez, Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy and Environment at the US State Department.
During the meeting, Advisor Rahman emphasised trade and contact between people as a key component of enhanced economic cooperation between the two countries. He reiterated Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s earlier proposal to establish a dedicated economic zone for US investors. He encouraged US IT companies to invest in hi-tech parks in Bangladesh.
Under-Secretary Jose W Fernandez praised Bangladesh’s notable economic growth and remarkable success in COVID-19 vaccinations.
The two sides discussed issues including climate change, renewable energy, maritime and blue economy, COVID-19, tourism and hospitality, and cooperation in civil aviation. Bangladesh has called on the United States to take immediate action in this regard, citing the resumption of Dhaka-New York direct flights as a priority for the government.
Both sides have agreed to hold the third round of talks in Dhaka in 2023 at a mutually convenient time.
