PM calls for more Swedish investment as H&M CEO calls on her

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday called for more Swedish investment in various sectors of Bangladesh, particularly in ICT and Economic Zones, and reap the benefits.

The prime minister made the call when a Swedish delegation led by CEO and President of world-renowned clothing company H&M, Helena Helmersson, called on her at her official residence Ganabhaban.

Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh Alexandra Berg Von Linde and Chief Financial Officer of H&M Adam Karlsson were also in the delegation.

Prime Minister's Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim briefed the reporters.

Sheikh Hasina said that Bangladesh has its own economic policy and targeted plan on poverty reduction, food security, healthcare, and on creating employment opportunities.

She mentioned that the government wants to expand the export basket to further strengthen the economy of the country.

During the meeting, Helena Helmersson mentioned that Sweden has had special relations with Bangladesh for the last three decades and said, they want to carry forward the business with Bangladesh.

The H&M CEO highly appreciated the socio-economic development of Bangladesh and lauded the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for successfully tackling the Covid-19 pandemic in the country.

In response, the Prime Minister also appreciated the Swedish Company as they did not cancel their orders during the pandemic.

As Helena Helmersson pointed out the climate change issue describing it as very important, Sheikh Hasina said, her government is carrying out mitigation programmes on its own fund.

In this regard, the Prime Minister noted that her government is aware about climate change and is working on this issue.

Sheikh Hasina also highlighted her government's achievements in women empowerment and gender equality in the country.

Prime Minister's Adviser on Private Industry and Investment Salman F Rahman and Prime Minister's Principal Secretary Tofazzel Hossain Miah were present.