In a strategic move aimed at accelerating foreign direct investment (FDI) in Bangladesh, the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) and the Foreign Investors’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) held a collaborative meeting today at the BIDA headquarters in Dhaka. The meeting was graced by Mr. Lutfey Siddiqi, Special Envoy for International Affairs of the Honourable Chief Adviser, as the chief guest.
The event, presided over by BIDA Secretary Dr. Khandoker Azizul Islam, focused on fostering stronger partnerships to address the challenges in attracting FDI and enhancing the investment landscape of Bangladesh. Virtually joining the session as the guest of honour was Mr. Ashik Chowdhury, the newly appointed Executive Chairman of BIDA, while FICCI President Mr. Zaved Akhtar was present as a special guest.
In his keynote address, Mr. Lutfey Siddiqi underscored the importance of collaboration between BIDA and FICCI to face the challenges that hinder investment flows. He stressed that by working together, both organizations could open new areas for investment, streamline the investment process, and attract higher levels of foreign capital. His remarks focused on the necessity of adapting to global economic changes and ensuring that Bangladesh remains an attractive destination for international investors.
During the meeting, Dr. Khandoker Azizul Islam presented a comprehensive overview of the current investment climate in Bangladesh, including the policies, laws, and barriers that need to be addressed to foster more robust foreign investment. He highlighted BIDA’s One-Stop Service (OSS) system, which provides comprehensive services to investors, and urged FICCI to help build a global network that could draw more investors to the country. “BIDA is always ready to provide maximum support to foreign investors,” he said, emphasizing the authority’s readiness to resolve any issues that arise.
Mr. Ashik Chowdhury, in his first official engagement as the Executive Chairman of BIDA, expressed his gratitude to the FICCI representatives for their role in expanding foreign investment in Bangladesh. He lauded FICCI for acting as ambassadors for Bangladesh to the global community. “Through your efforts, Bangladesh is promoted abroad, and this helps bring foreign investment into the country,” Mr. Chowdhury remarked, highlighting Bangladesh’s reputation as a safe and stable investment destination. He expressed confidence that the challenges and obstacles hindering investment could be resolved quickly and efficiently through close cooperation between BIDA and FICCI.
Both BIDA and FICCI also presented audiovisuals that highlighted their respective roles in promoting investment and showcased up-to-date information on the current state of foreign investment in the country.
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment from both sides to continue working closely to overcome any barriers to investment, ensure the continuity of foreign investment, and explore new opportunities for economic growth. Senior officials from BIDA, FICCI, and the office of the Honourable Chief Adviser were present during the meeting, further demonstrating the importance of this partnership in shaping Bangladesh’s future as a key player in the global investment landscape.
