Dhaka, Nov 11 (V7N) – Trade Advisor to the Interim Government, Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, announced plans to strengthen Bangladesh's international trade by signing free trade agreements (FTAs) with various countries, focusing on Japan, Indonesia, and India, and expanding relationships within ASEAN. The advisor’s statement came after discussions on the potential Bangladesh-Singapore FTA at an event at the Ministry of Commerce on Sunday, reported by BSS.

“We aim to establish agreements that will facilitate Bangladesh’s smooth transition from a least developed to a developing country, ensuring the process benefits the nation’s economy and its people,” Dr. Ahmed explained in response to media questions. He emphasized that the transition would be gradual, aligning with the country’s needs and prioritizing business-friendly conditions for local industries.

Dr. Ahmed also underscored Singapore as a key trade partner for Bangladesh, not only in goods but also in services and investment sectors. He noted that the proposed FTA with Singapore is a strategic move to deepen economic ties between the two nations.

Highlighting the geographical advantage of Chittagong for Singapore, Singaporean High Commissioner Derek Low spoke on the substantial trade potential between the countries. He pointed out that Singapore’s PSA, a major global shipping company, is currently investing in Chittagong's Bay Terminal, aiming to transform it into a prominent international port. This transformation is expected to further enhance trade and economic connectivity between Bangladesh and Singapore.

Present at the event were Lutfe Siddiqui, Special Envoy for International Affairs, BIDA Chairman Chowdhury Ashiq Mahmud Bin Harun, and Commerce Secretary Md. Selim Uddin. Earlier, High Commissioner Derek Low had a courtesy meeting with Dr. Ahmed, underscoring the mutual commitment to advancing economic cooperation.

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