Bangladesh (Commonwealth Union)_ Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has actively pursued the backing of Ireland in extending the transition period of the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for Bangladesh within the European Union market until 2032, rather than the previously set date of 2029. This initiative aims to solidify Bangladesh’s economic growth trajectory, particularly following its graduation from the category of Least Developed Countries (LDCs).
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The appeal for support was made during a diplomatic encounter between Prime Minister Hasina and a prominent Irish delegation, led by Simon Coveney, Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Trade, and Employment. The meeting took place at the official residence of the Prime Minister, Ganabhaban. Following the discussions, Prime Minister Hasina’s Speechwriter, Md Nazrul Islam, provided insights to reporters regarding the dialogue. According to Islam, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of Ireland’s support in extending business privileges, notably the Generalised Scheme of Preferences, for Bangladesh until 2032.
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Acknowledging Ireland as a steadfast friend and partner of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina highlighted the longstanding support of the EU member state in various international arenas. She appealed to Ireland for continued backing on matters concerning Bangladesh’s interests within the EU platform. Furthermore, Prime Minister Hasina also encouraged Irish entrepreneurs to consider investing in Bangladesh’s special economic zones and advanced technology parks.
Further emphasizing Bangladesh’s potential as a significant market hub for three to four billion consumers, Hasina outlined various sectors such as ICT, pharmaceuticals, and agro-based industries as promising investment opportunities for Irish businesses. Addressing concerns regarding labor issues, Prime Minister Hasina asserted that misinformation often circulates with malicious intent. She urged EU countries to directly engage with the Bangladeshi government to obtain accurate information, thus avoiding misunderstandings.
Minister Simon Coveney expressed Ireland’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Bangladesh. He announced the opening of Ireland’s inaugural honorary consulate in Dhaka, aimed at fostering closer ties between the two nations in trade and interpersonal interactions. Coveney also highlighted Ireland’s willingness to provide technical assistance to Bangladesh in areas such as technology and agro-processing industries. He assured continued support from Ireland in international forums for Bangladesh’s socio-economic development.
Touching upon the Rohingya crisis, Minister Coveney pledged Ireland’s ongoing support. He recommended enhancing security measures in Rohingya camps, promoting income-generating activities for refugees, and facilitating the construction of permanent, improved housing for displaced Rohingya individuals. In response, Prime Minister Hasina underscored Bangladesh’s efforts in providing security to Rohingya camps, despite challenges posed by internal groups engaged in criminal activities. She cited Bangladesh’s initiative to establish standard housing for a significant number of Rohingya on Bhashanchar Island, expressing readiness to accommodate more refugees there.
However, Prime Minister Hasina lamented the obstacles faced in the Bhashanchar housing project due to opposition from certain international entities, non-governmental organizations, and countries. The meeting also saw the presence of key figures including PM’s Principal Secretary M Tofazzel Hossain Miah, Ambassador of Ireland to India Kevin Kelly, and Honorary Consul of Ireland for Bangladesh Masud Jamil Khan, and other officials.
