Pledges continued support to trade, dev
The European Union has reassured Bangladesh that it would continue to support trade
and development sectors in the country.
This was stated by EU high representative for foreign affairs and security policy Catherine Ashton at a meeting with foreign minister Dipu Moni in Singapore on the sidelines of Asia Security Summit, known as Shangri La Dialogue.
Both the ministers discussed initiatives undertaken by the government to address the problems in the RMG sector.
Dipu Moni briefed the EU high representative on the comprehensive work plan undertaken by the government with all stakeholders to ensure better compliance in the garment sector, including amendment to the labour law and the wage board to be formed soon.
She also informed the EU representative of the current political situation and the dialogue initiatives taken by the government to discuss the modalities of an interim government to oversee the next elections.
They both hoped that the upcoming general elections would be free, fair and inclusive.
The EU high representative praised the Bangladesh government for the steps it had taken to reform the RMG sector and ensure better compliance.
Catherine said, ‘We have no doubt about your commitment. We want trade and investment to flourish in a stable environment. EU has no interest in stopping programmes in Bangladesh.’
She expressed EU’s commitment to working with Bangladesh in the interest of millions of workers, most of whom are women.
While commending Bangladesh on its achievements in the economic as well as social sectors, she stressed avoidance of any form of violence.
In response to Dipu Moni’s invitation, the EU high representative agreed to visit Bangladesh at a mutually convenient time before the polls.
Dipu Moni is currently attending the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore along with ministers and dignitaries from the Asia–Pacific region. She attended the high- level plenary sessions and spoke on Bangladesh perspective on the ‘Afghan drawdown and regional security’.
Bangladesh high commissioner to Singapore Mahbubuzzaman was present in the meetings.
-With New Age input
