Dhaka, October 16, 2023

The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), the apex trade organization of the country, and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their commitment to bolster trade relations between the two regions. The EU Ambassador to Bangladesh H.E. Charles Whiteley and FBCCI President Mahbubul Alam expressed their commitment to strengthen bilateral relations between Bangladesh and EU during a courtesy meeting held on Monday, October 16, 2023, at the FBCCI Office in Gulshan, Dhaka.

FBCCI President Mahbubul Alam expressed his gratitude to the EU for their support during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also conveyed his sincere appreciation to the EU for providing Bangladesh an additional three-year transition period to enjoy EBA facilities till 2029.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh's diplomatic relations with the European Union, underscoring the enduring commitment to friendship between the two regions, said Mahbubul Alam.

President Mahbubul Alam highlighted the EU's significance as the largest export destination for Bangladesh, accounting for approximately 45 percent of Bangladesh's total exports in 2022-23, particularly in the Ready-Made Garments (RMG) and frozen food sectors.

He lauded the EU's dedication to climate action in Bangladesh and its support for investment in environmentally friendly technologies. This support encompasses climate-smart infrastructures, renewable energy, resilient supply chains, improved water management, human resource management, coastal barriers, industrial pollution control, and food security.

Furthermore, Mr. Mahbubul Alam called upon the EU to ensure that the proposed carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) considers the needs of developing countries like Bangladesh to secure GSP+ status. He also sought the EU's guidance in formulating and implementing carbon reduction policies.

President Mahbubul Alam expressed his appreciation for the EU's humanitarian assistance to Rohingya refugees and sought EU support in repatriating them to Myanmar.

EU Ambassador to Bangladesh H.E. Charles Whiteley conveyed his greetings and best wishes to Mr. Mahbubul Alam on his presidency of FBCCI. He reiterated the EU's commitment to enhancing bilateral relations between Bangladesh and the European Union.

Ambassador Whiteley further mentioned the EU's active collaboration with the government of Bangladesh on youth skill development and addressing climate change-related issues.

FBCCI Vice President Khairul Huda Chopol, Mohammad Anwar Sadat Sarker, Shomi Kaiser, Md. Munir Hossain, Directors and other dignitaries were present at the meeting.