March 30, Colombo (LNW): Bangladesh High Commissioner in Colombo, Tareq Md Ariful Islam, emphasized his country’s commitment to fostering closer cooperation with Sri Lanka across various sectors during a reception held to mark the 53rd National Day on Tuesday.
Highlighting areas of potential collaboration, High Commissioner Ariful Islam mentioned public health, agriculture, tourism, and youth development as key focus areas. He also noted efforts to enhance shipping and air connectivity between the two nations, emphasizing Bangladesh’s significant utilization of Colombo Port.
Expressing solidarity, he recalled Bangladesh’s support to Sri Lanka during challenging times and mentioned ongoing discussions for a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) to expand business opportunities.
High Commissioner Ariful Islam announced the commencement of FitsAir operations between Dhaka and Colombo next month, expecting increased tourism and enhanced people-to-people connectivity and business exchanges.
Transport, Highways, and Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana, the chief guest at the event, underscored the enduring friendship between the two countries since Bangladesh’s independence in 1972. He expressed optimism about Sri Lanka’s economic stability and hoped for a return to growth in 2024.
Ariful Islam stressed Bangladesh’s unwavering support for Sri Lanka’s endeavors and highlighted the potential benefits for Sri Lanka in tapping into Bangladesh’s domestic market and economic growth trajectory. He commended Sri Lankan businesses investing in Bangladesh and noted growing interest in bilateral trade.
Acknowledging Sri Lanka’s role in Bangladesh’s cricketing development, Ariful Islam humorously remarked on the competitiveness between the two teams on the field.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Ministers Mahinda Amaraweera, Ali Sabry, Wijayadasa Rajapakshe, Susil Premajayantha, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, heads of foreign missions, and defense attaches.
