Dutch look to boost trade with Bangladesh

As the economy of Bangladesh is growing rapidly, the Netherlands is looking to enhance bilateral trade and utilise investment opportunities here with a strong focus on digitalisation and sustainability.

"As longstanding partners in the multilateral sphere, we also seek collaboration with Bangladesh in promoting a rules-based international order and human rights," said the Netherlands embassy in Dhaka ahead of a visit by a delegation.

The 10-member delegation led by Birgitta Tazelaar, deputy director general for international cooperation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will visit Bangladesh from August 28 to August 31.

The delegation would focus all aspects of Dutch policies for Bangladesh, such as social and economic development, water and climate adaptation, business development and issues of justice and human rights.

"In the new policy strategy…the Netherlands combines trade with development cooperation activities," said the statement.

It said the Netherlands has been contributing to sustainable development in areas such as garments, agriculture, water, women empowerment, sexual and reproductive health and rights and the strengthening of civil society.

The delegation will speak with private sector partners, government actors and the civil society, take a look into different private sector initiatives and development projects and visit the Rohingya refugee camps and local communities in Cox's Bazar.

The delegation will identify pathways for sustainable cooperation concerning climate change, trade and investment opportunities, climate action, gender equality and youth empowerment, the strengthening of civil society and labour rights.

The delegation will also look at opportunities for trade and investment, but also underline the importance of international responsible business conduct, anticipating Bangladesh's country status graduation and the consequences of new European Union legislation on associated due diligence.

The Netherlands will also continue providing cooperation on working towards a sustainable solution to the Rohingya crisis, the statement said.