DHAKA : Foreign Minister Ali Sabry on 23 November held bilateral discussions with the Foreign Minister of Bangladesh Dr. A.K. Abdul Momen in Dhaka.
Foreign Minister Sabry who is visiting Bangladesh to attend the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Committee of Ministers (COM) Meeting, discussed with his counterpart the importance of having strong shipping and air connectivity between the two countries for further development of bilateral trade and tourism. Minister Momen pointed out the potential of the tourism market of Bangladesh for Sri Lanka, as nearly 2.5 million Bangladesh tourists had visited neighbouring countries such as India and Maldives in the last few years. Both the Ministers agreed that the tourism industry can be further developed by connecting the ports of Chattogram, Colombo and Male.
Both the Foreign Ministers recalled the support extended to each other in international fora and reaffirmed their support. Minister Sabry extended his appreciation to Bangladesh for their continuous support at the UNHRC. Minister Sabry briefed Minister Momen of the progress made in Sri Lanka and the investment opportunities available for foreign investors in the country. Minister Momen appreciated the contribution made by Sri Lankan investors towards the economic development in Bangladesh. Both Ministers agreed to expedite matters of formulating a Joint Consultative Committee at Ministerial level between the two countries to ensure comprehensive collaboration.
Minister Momen stated the importance of finalising the proposed Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) in order to further develop bilateral trade. Bangladesh has many opportunities in terms of trade, especially agricultural products, pharmaceuticals and fresh water fish. In view of developing investments, both the Minsters conveyed willingness in pursuing the Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement.
The two Ministers noted with satisfaction the robust bilateral cooperation between the two countries and agreed to strengthen the relationship further.
