The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) and the European Union (EU) today reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering trade relations between the two regions.

EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Charles Whiteley and FBCCI President Mahbubul Alam expressed their commitment to strengthen bilateral relations between Bangladesh and EU during a meeting held at the FBCCI office in Dhaka.

Alam expressed his gratitude to the EU for their support during the Covid-19 pandemic.

He also conveyed his sincere appreciation to the EU for providing Bangladesh with an additional three-year transition period to enjoy 'Everything but Arms (EBA)' facilities until 2029.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh's diplomatic relations with the European Union, underscoring the enduring commitment to friendship between the two regions, Mahbubul Alam said in an FBCCI statement.

Alam highlighted the EU's significance as the largest export destination for Bangladesh, accounting for approximately 45 percent of Bangladesh's total exports in 2022-23, particularly in the ready-made garments and frozen food sectors.

He lauded the EU's dedication to climate action in Bangladesh and its support for investment in environmentally-friendly technologies.

This support encompasses climate-smart infrastructure, renewable energy and resilient supply chains alongside improved water management, human resource management, coastal barriers, industrial pollution control and food security.

Alam called upon the EU to ensure that the proposed carbon border adjustment mechanism considers the needs of developing countries like Bangladesh to secure GSP+ status.

He also sought the EU's guidance in formulating and implementing carbon reduction policies.

Alam also expressed appreciation for the EU's humanitarian assistance to Rohingya refugees and sought EU support in repatriating them to Myanmar.

He reiterated the EU's commitment to enhancing bilateral relations between Bangladesh and the EU.

Whiteley further underlined the EU's active collaboration with the government of Bangladesh on youth skills development and in addressing climate change-related issues.