State minister for foreign affairs Md Shahriar Alam has said that the pandemic has generated “newer scopes and interest” to establish more “prudent” relationships among international partners, despite creating immense global challenges.
“I firmly believe this changing context will bring Bangladesh and Nicaragua even closer to forge stronger trade and commercial relationship,” he said while speaking on the occasion of decorating Bangladesh Ambassador Mizanur Rahman of the order of ‘José de Marcoleta’ in the “Degree of Grand Cross” by the government of Nicaragua.
He thanked the government of Nicaragua for honouring the Ambassador with this esteemed honour, as the recognition of his contribution to strengthen Bangladesh-Nicaragua bilateral relations.
He said Nicaragua and Bangladesh have good relations bilaterally, with the potential to further strengthen the ties.
“We look for equitable access to global markets, expansion of our export basket, attract Foreign Direct Investment, transfer of critical technologies, and greater and better employment of our professionals and workers both home and abroad,” he said.
“Bangladesh with its pro-investment policies, huge domestic market, strategically important geopolitical location, political stability, connectivity to major economies and its hard-working skilled people has become a lucrative destination for foreign investment.
“Pharmaceutical products from Bangladesh are being exported to some 145 countries, including the North American countries, the UK and other European countries.
“Bangladesh has potential to export to Nicaragua other consumer goods like plastic products, cement, furniture, leather goods, and light engineering products, among others.”
Nicaragua imports clothes from Bangladesh.
The state minister said the import volume needs further boosting.
“We hope Nicaragua will consider importing other products from Bangladesh.”
He also highlighted the Rohingya issue and said despite sincere efforts, the commencement of repatriation “remains highly uncertain due to a lack of decisive action on the part of Myanmar.”
“Lack of progress in repatriation in the last three years led to widespread frustrations and hopelessness among the Rohingyas.
“While we appreciate the humanitarian assistance of the international community, we also call upon the international community to engage with Myanmar in a meaningful way to ensure the creation of a conducive environment in the Rakhine state,” he said.
“Bangladesh wants the urgent resolution of this situation by early, sustainable and dignified repatriation of the Rohingyas to their homeland. Bangladesh appreciates Nicaragua’s support on the Rohingya issue.
“We further hope in future voting at the international level such as at the UN, Nicaragua would come forward to extend fullest support towards Bangladesh’s position vis-a-vie this crisis and its ultimate solution,” the state minister said.
