Bangladesh High Commissioner in Colombo Tareq Md Ariful Islam on Tuesday said his country is aiming for closer cooperation with Sri Lanka in the field of public health, agriculture, tourism, and youth development.
He added that both nations are working for more robust shipping and air connectivity too, adding that Bangladesh is one of the top users of Colombo Port.
The High Commissioner recollected how Bangladesh stood in support to Sri Lanka in their own humble way during the challenging time. He added that discussions are continuing for a PTA which will open up more and more business opportunities.
“Operation of FitsAir between Dhaka and Colombo will start from next month. It is expected to bring more tourists from Bangladesh promoting people to people connectivity and business between the two sovereign nations”, the High Commissioner said.
The High Commissioner was speaking at a reception held in Colombo to mark the 53rd National Day on Tuesday. Transport, Highways and Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana was the chief guest.
He added that Sri Lanka has been a close friend and reliable partner since the country recognized Bangladesh on March 04, 1972.
“We are very happy to see that economic stability is being restored in Sri Lanka. It reflects the resilience of the Nation. We earnestly hope that the year 2024 will see Sri Lanka return to a growth trajectory”
High Commissioner stressed that Bangladesh stands firmly beside Sri Lanka in its endeavours. The envoy was of the view that Sri Lanka can benefit by tapping into Bangladesh’s huge domestic market and from their remarkable economic growth.
“Many Sri Lankan business houses have invested in Bangladesh. They are running successful businesses there. The interest to do business with Bangladesh is growing in Sri Lanka. All these could help Sri Lanka’s economic recovery,” he said.
He also acknowledged Sri Lanka’s contribution to the cricketing development of Bangladesh. “Our teams are now fierce competitors on the field. Well, it’s too fierce I suppose”, he added.
Transport, Highways and Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana also spoke. Ministers Mahinda Amaraweera, Ali Sabry, Wijayadasa Rajapakshe, Susil Premajayantha ,former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, heads of foreign missions based in Colombo, defence attaches were also present.
