Shahriar lauds Bangladesh-Portugal direct shipping link initiative

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam has lauded the ongoing efforts to connect Bangladesh and Portugal through direct shipping links.

He made the remark as a delegation of Leixoes Port Authority delegation, led by its Board President Engineer Nuno Ara£jo at Bangladesh embassy in Lisbon on May 27, a foreign ministry press release said on on Monday.

During the meeting, the state minister apprised the delegation of Bangladesh's existing port infrastructure and its further development opportunities to meet the regional and international requirements.

The State Minister expressed satisfaction on the progress achieved towards signing a MoU between Chattogram Port Authority and Leixoes Port Authority for the establishment of direct shipping link.

He also welcomed the formation of a Working Group for the timely implementation of that MoU and assured his full support in this regard.

The representatives of port authorities highlighted that this collaboration would create new prospects for fast, cost-effective and reliable shipping for the Bangladeshi exporters while sending regular consignments to Europe by sea during the exchange.

Representatives of Leixoes Port Authority further explored technical issues related to establishing direct links between the ports and discussed the feasibility of the aforesaid freight route.

Later that day, the State Minister met a business delegation from the "Business Association of the Lisbon Region" led by its Executive President Rui Jorge Rego.

During the meeting, Alam underscored the need for enhanced interaction between both business communities to tap the full potential of future trade and investment.

He suggested establishing a Joint Business Council to further the cooperation.

Highlighting the investment-friendly policies and incentives of the current Awami League government, the State Minister invited the Portuguese Investors to make full use of the offered opportunity and investment in Bangladesh.

The business delegation commended the steady and continuing economic growth of Bangladesh and anticipated full support from the government for enhancing economic relation between the countries.