CCCI leaders exchange views with EU Ambassador

The Ambassador and Head of the European Union Delegation to Bangladesh, Michael Miller, met with leaders of the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) at the World Trade Center Chamber office in Chattogram on Wednesday. 

The meeting was chaired by Muhammad Anwar Pasha, Additional Divisional Commissioner (General) of Chattogram and Administrator of the CCCI.  

Ambassador Miller highlighted the EU's commitment to fostering political stability and economic growth in Bangladesh. He emphasized the European Union�s multifaceted agenda, which includes development, humanitarian aid, economic partnerships, and security collaboration.  

Miller announced the EU Development Bank�s plan to invest 600 million euros in the Chattogram-Laksam railway line, aiming to strengthen infrastructure and enhance bilateral relations. He also praised Chattogram�s development and its strategic importance as a commercial hub in South Asia.  

The EU delegation expressed interest in renewable energy, technical support for the RMG sector, climate change initiatives, water management, and regional cooperation. Ambassador Miller underscored the EU's commitment to supporting Bangladesh�s value chains and economic sustainability.  

Chamber Administrator Muhammad Anwar Pasha highlighted Chattogram�s geographical significance and its growing role as a commercial hub in South Asia. He noted the region�s robust infrastructure, including South Asia's largest specialized economic zone spanning 30,000 acres, three export processing zones, and ongoing projects to enhance Chattogram Port�s capacity. He urged EU businesses to invest in the region, particularly in port development, renewable energy, and manufacturing.  

The meeting also addressed social security, private sector growth, food security, and humanitarian support for Rohingya refugees.  
Key EU officials present included Juret Smalskite, Counselor of Human Capital Development; Edwin Koekok, First Counselor; Abu Syed Belal, Trade Advisor; Jui Chakma, Program Manager; and representatives from the CCCI, including Joint Secretary Nurul Absar Chowdhury and Deputy Secretary Shahed Ali Titu.  

This interaction reflects the EU�s strategic interest in deepening economic ties and fostering long-term cooperation with Bangladesh.