Bangladesh invites Singaporean investment in ICT, digital growth

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Wednesday called for increased Singaporean investment in Bangladesh, particularly in ICT and digital infrastructure, during a meeting with Mitchel Lee, Chargé d’Affaires of the High Commission of Singapore to Bangladesh.

The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in digital governance, capacity building and ICT-related sectors. 

The State Minister highlighted the government’s efforts to improve public service efficiency, ensure transparency, and reduce costs through digital transformation.

Both sides also explored collaboration in the energy sector, including waste-to-energy power plants and renewable energy initiatives. 

Singapore expressed interest in investing in renewable energy and diversifying food imports, while Bangladesh emphasized promoting exports of agro-products such as mangoes and seafood, as well as jute, ceramics, and leather goods.

The meeting underlined the importance of exchanging business delegations to encourage targeted engagement. 

The State Minister welcomed potential Singaporean investments, citing Bangladesh’s business-friendly policies and investment environment.

Both parties expressed satisfaction with the progress of bilateral relations and welcomed the prospect of Bangladesh hosting the next round of Foreign Office Consultations in Dhaka this year. 

They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties for mutual benefit.

The CDA congratulated the State Minister on her recent appointment, noting the strong people-to-people connections between the two countries and the positive reputation of Bangladeshi workers in Singapore. 

He highlighted upcoming opportunities linked to large-scale infrastructure projects, including the new terminal at Changi Airport.

The State Minister stressed the importance of expanding employment opportunities for skilled and semi-skilled Bangladeshi workers in Singapore and emphasized vocational training as a government priority. 

The CDA reiterated Singapore’s interest in concluding the Bangladesh�"Singapore Free Trade Agreement (BSFTA) and requested continued cooperation on the Bay Terminal project, with the State Minister assuring full support and coordination with relevant agencies.

SH