SYLHET March 2, (V7N) - Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir has reassured the public that there is “no need to panic” over unrest in the Strait of Hormuz, while confirming that the government is closely monitoring global supply chains for essential goods and energy.

Speaking after separate meetings with UK High Commissioner Sarah Cook and Indian High Commissioner Pranay Kumar Verma at the Secretariat, the minister emphasized strengthening trade relations with both countries to ensure sustainable economic growth.

In his meeting with the UK envoy, Muktadir highlighted the potential for investment in Sylhet’s tea industry, calling for modernization to boost production and tourism. He also urged British investors to explore LPG-based technology to keep fertilizer factories running year-round amid gas shortages. Sarah Cook expressed UK interest in seafood, leather processing, light engineering, and skill development for Bangladesh’s trade negotiators.

Later, in discussions with the Indian High Commissioner, Muktadir said talks focused on reopening closed border ports, expanding trade, and technology exchange. While no final decision was reached on a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (CEFA), he expressed optimism about future cooperation.

On the Strait of Hormuz issue, he told reporters: “The government is cautious about the supply of essential goods and energy due to international unrest. However, there is no need to panic right now. We are monitoring the situation.”

State Minister for Commerce Md. Shariful Alam, Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman, and Additional Secretary (Export) Md. Abdur Rahim Khan were present at the meetings.

END/AJ/RH