FM urges Singapore to invest in Bangladesh's SEZ, high-tech parks

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen has urged Singapore to invest in Bangladesh's Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and high-tech parks considering their wide range of lucrative options.

He made the request while he met Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan in Jakarta, Indonesia on 13 July 2023, on the sidelines of the 30th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), a foreign ministry's press release said here today.

During the meeting, both the ministers discussed the proposed FTA between the two countries and agreed to expedite the process.

They discussed the issues of mutual interests, reasserting their commitment to further strengthening the excellent bilateral relations between the two friendly countries as well as exploring avenues of further engagements and cooperation in the coming days.

Momen also requested Singapore to import pharmaceuticals from Bangladesh.

The Bangladesh foreign minister urged more coordinated and proactive support of Singapore to create a congenial atmosphere for an early, safe and dignified repatriation of over 1.2 million forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals from Bangladesh.

He also sought Singapore's support for Bangladesh's candidacy for the post of Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for the term 2024-27.

The Foreign Minister sought the support of Singapore in expediting Bangladesh's bid to be a Sectoral Dialogue Partner (SDP) of ASEAN.

Singapore assured of extending full support to Bangladesh's endeavor of becoming the Sectoral Dialogue Partner (SDP) of ASEAN.

The two countries agreed to accelerate cooperation in the fields of trade, investment, agriculture, agro-processing industry, health and pharmaceuticals, ICT, connectivity, medical diplomacy and so on.

The meeting concluded with a positive note to collaborate and share experiences toward a more efficient partnership between the two countries in the days ahead.