Bangladesh and Portugal are establishing a direct shipping connection, to generate new trade opportunities for trade community in both the countries. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Chattogram Port Authority and Leixoes Port Authority for the establishment of a direct shipping link, has been completed. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md. Shahriar Alam expressed satisfaction over the progress towards the formation of a working group for the timely implementation of the MoU and assured his full support in this regard.
The state minister received the Leixoes Port Authority delegation, led by the President of its Board of Directors Eng. Nuno Araújo at the Embassy during his current visit to Portugal.
He apprised the delegation of Bangladesh’s existing port infrastructure and its further development opportunities to meet the regional and international requirements.
The representatives of the Leixoes Port Authority explored technical issues related to establishing direct links between the ports and discussed the feasibility of the said freight route.
Later that day, the State Minister met a business delegation from the “Business Association of the Lisbon Region” led by its Executive President Rui Jorge Rego.
He underscored the need for enhanced interaction between both business communities to tap the full potential of future trade and investment.
He suggested establishing a Joint Business Council to further the cooperation. Highlighting the investment-friendly policies and incentives of the government, the State Minister invited the Portuguese Investors to make full use of the offered opportunity and invest in Bangladesh.
The business delegation commended the steady and continuing economic growth of Bangladesh and anticipated full support from the government for enhancing economic relations between the countries.
A video featuring Bangladesh’s economic progress and potential was screened for the delegation also.
The state minister also interacted with the members of the expatriate community in Portugal the day before.
