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Canada eager to assist Bangladesh in trade & business |
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September 13, 2000
Dhaka (UNB) – Canada is keen to assist Bangladesh in increasing its trade and business capability, particularly in the export sector. Besides, the North American country is eager to exchange its vast experience in gas sector with Bangladesh and help develop the tourism sector here, a Canadian official told Commerce Minister M Abdul Jalil yesterday. James Junke, director of South Asian Affairs at the Canadian Foreign and International Trade Department, met with the minister at his Sangsad Bhaban office and said Canadian investors are showing interest to invest in Bangladesh, said an official handout. Stressing the need for increasing bilateral cooperation in gas and energy sector, James Junke said such cooperation would be helpful to both Canada and Bangladesh. He mentioned that Canadian investors are showing interest to invest in Bangladesh. Referring to tourism sector, he said it could be turned into a major foreign exchange earning sector for Bangladesh through proper development. “We’re also interested in providing assistance in this regard.” Welcoming the Canadian offer for assistance, the Commerce Minister said Bangladesh is also eager to boost bilateral trade with Canada. “There is a vast scope for increasing commercial ties between the two countries,” he said stressing the need for exchange of frequent visits of business people at both government and private levels. Replying to a query from the Canadian official on marketing of gas, he said Bangladesh is now working on ascertaining the actual volume of gas reserve. Jalil informed the Canadian official of government steps towards trade expansion and export diversification in the country. He said Bangladesh is firm to maintain its success achieved in readymade garment export with the help of rich countries. Seeking Canadian assistance, the minister said the least developed countries need zero-tariff facilities and market access to developed countries in order to increase their commercial capability. He also sought assistance from Canada in the expansion of market for Bangladesh products, particularly readymade garments. Jalil made a request to the Canadian businessmen to increase their investment in Information Technology, leather and seafood sectors. Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh David Preston, Commerce Secretary Golam Rahman and other officials concerned were present. |