Netherland seeks ‘accomodating business climate’ for more investment in Bangladesh
The Netherlands seeks an "accommodating business climate" for foreign investment and trade, as well as adherence to global labour and environmental standards, in order to attract more foreign investment and business to Bangladesh.
The observation was shared during a Foreign Office Consultation (FOC) held virtually between Bangladesh and The Netherlands today.
Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen led the Bangladesh delegation while the Netherlands side was led by the Secretary-General of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs Paul Huijts, says a joint press statement.
At the fourth FOC, Bangladesh underscored the need for promoting responsible business conduct in the global supply chain and for continued international support measures following its graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status.
They noted the strong ties between the two countries over the past 50 years and elaborated on political and economic developments, as well as the evolving nature of the bilateral relationship, with a shift from development cooperation to economic cooperation.
Both sides agreed to continue exchanging views on human rights and rule of law, including in multilateral fora.
They acknowledged significant Dutch role in Bangladesh's early infrastructural development, water management and food security efforts, and shared their views on post-Covid-19 economic recovery to 'build back better'.
The delegations held an in-depth discussion on how to further strengthen economic ties and knowledge exchange in a wide variety of areas, including water management, agriculture, digitalisation and climate adaptation.
The Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 was specifically discussed as a key vehicle for integrating cooperation on water management and food security.
The two delegation leaders discussed developments in the region, including the current focus on increasing cooperation and connectivity between the EU and the Indo-Pacific region.
The Netherlands expressed its gratitude for Bangladesh's hospitality towards the Rohingya people and noted ongoing discussions on humanitarian issues between the international donor community and Bangladesh.
Both countries shared their concerns about recent developments in Myanmar, including the serious challenges these developments pose for the safe, sustainable, dignified and voluntary return of the Rohingya to their homeland.
They also reiterated their continued commitment to justice and accountability for the human rights violations committed in Myanmar.