Sheikh Hasina

Photo: PID

United States' friendship with Bangladesh is deep: Prime Minister

She said, "United States is one of the most reliable development partners of Bangladesh. The partnership and friendship between Bangladesh and the United States runs deep."

She said these during an exchange of views with the United States-Bangladesh Business Council on Tuesday.

"I believe US companies will take advantage and invest more in potential and productive sectors such as power and energy, ICT, infrastructure, light engineering and electronics, automobile industry, agricultural processing, pharmaceuticals and ceramics," the Prime Minister said.

She said, "Since independence, the United States of America has been a reliable partner in our socio-economic progress. Being the single largest source of FDI and export market for Bangladesh, I expect the US to continue its growth trajectory."

Highlighting the situation of the country, the Prime Minister said, "Our government has followed a long-term growth strategy for our citizens. It is sustainable, as recognized by world economists and organizations. We are now more united than ever and committed to realizing the vision of Smart Bangladesh by 2041."

She said, "I want to assure you, we will make our business and investment environment easier and the best possible policy framework friendly. I believe that the US-Bangladesh Energy Task Force and the US-Bangladesh Digital Economy Task Force will help us ensure sustainable development. At the same time, it will contribute to deepening the cooperation of the companies of both countries."

Stating that foreigners will find a favorable business environment in Bangladesh, the Prime Minister said, "I am sure that you will be confident in your investment in Bangladesh. You know Bangladesh is now being recognized for its state-of-the-art manufacturing plants in RMG, leather, plastic, jute, ICT, agro-processing and many more."

Highlighting the economic picture of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina said, "Bangladesh will be the 35th largest economy in the world and the 20th largest economy by 2037. We have reduced the poverty rate from 41.5 percent to 18.7 percent and extreme poverty to 5.6 percent in the last 14 and a half years. Our per capita income has increased from USD 543 in 2006 to USD 2,765 in 2022. Bangladesh as a developing country has fulfilled all the criteria of graduation."