SL-Bangladesh to enhance Corporate sector cooperation
Sri Lanka High Commissioner in Dhaka, Dharmapala Weerakkody held a meeting with newly appointed Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) President, Taskeen Ahmed at the DCCI office in Dhaka recently.
DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed commended the strong trade and economic relations between the two countries and underscored the importance of further enhancing the partnership into a more mutually beneficial cooperation through new pragmatic initiatives. He particularly emphasised the immense potential for close collaboration in the Healthcare and Hospitality sectors through Joint Investments and the exchange of technical expertise. He highlighted the Investment opportunities for Sri Lankan businesses available in Bangladesh, particularly in the Deep-sea Fishing industry. He also mentioned that DCCI is planning to organise a visit of a Bangladeshi Business delegation to Sri Lanka this year to meet with their counterparts to discuss and explore future collaborative Business opportunities in both countries.
The DCCI President highlighted the importance of finalising the proposed Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka to facilitate smooth Bilateral Trade flows through lower tariffs and other trade concessions. He appreciated the significant contributions made by the Sri Lankan investors and professionals for the economic development of Bangladesh.
High Commissioner Weerakkody stated that there are numerous untapped opportunities for business communities in the Trade and Investment sectors of the two countries. He also highlighted that Bangladesh investors have opportunities to invest in Sri Lanka especially in the Pharmaceutical, IT and Textile manufacturing sectors using the facilities and incentives available for foreign investors in the strategic Textile Manufacturing Investments zone located in Eravur, Batticaloa.
The High Commissioner also emphasised the importance of cooperation between the two countries in the Tourism sector, as Sri Lanka has become a favourite destination for Bangladeshi travellers. He also mentioned that Bangladesh is a preferred destination for Sri Lankan companies to expand their businesses through Direct Foreign Investments and Joint Ventures with local firms.
Both the High Commissioner and the DCCI President agreed to work on exchanging Business Delegations to further enhance Bilateral Economic Cooperation.
Counsellor/-Commerce of the High Commission, Srimali Jayarathne accompanied the High Commissioner at the meeting.
