C T Online Desk: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is keen to invest in Chittagong Port, aiming for mutual financial benefits for both countries.
UAE Ambassador to Bangladesh Abdullah Ali Al Hamoudi conveyed this interest during a meeting with Brigadier General (Retd) M Sakhawat Hossain, adviser in the interim government on shipping as well as textiles and jute, at his secretariat office.
The ambassador said that as a friendly nation, the UAE believes investment in Bangladesh, particularly in Chittagong port, would be advantageous for both parties.
He highlighted the capabilities of Dubai-based DP World, an Emirati multinational logistics company engaged in seaport management across more than 60 countries.
“We have experience in constructing the London Gateway Port and managing ports in subcontinental countries like India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka,” he said.
Welcoming the investment proposal, Adviser Sakhawat emphasized Bangladesh’s openness to foreign investment, particularly noting the strong multidimensional relations with the UAE in various sectors, including trade and commerce.
“I believe this friendly relationship will reach new heights through this investment,” he said.
Sakhawat also requested the ambassador to facilitate easier transit visas for Bangladeshi sailors, to which the UAE envoy responded that they would sincerely consider the matter.
Additionally, the adviser urged the UAE to invest in Bangladesh’s jute and textiles sectors, highlighting the increasing global demand for environmentally friendly jute products.
He said that foreign investment in these sectors is on the rise and encouraged the ambassador to explore these lucrative opportunities.
The UAE ambassador led a five-member delegation during the meeting, which included Jute and Textiles Secretary M Abdur Rauf and Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Shipping Sanjoy Kumar Banik, along with other senior officials.
