PM offers SEZ for French companies

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today urged the French companies to set up a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Bangladesh saying there is an immense scope for more French investment in various sectors.

"We're setting up 100 'Special Economic Zones' across the country to industrialize Bangladesh in an inclusive manner. Besides the traditional areas of trade, I feel that there is a scope for further French investment in Bangladesh's urban infrastructure, energy and the blue economy sectors," she said in a breakfast meeting with top French business leaders.

Movement of the Enterprises of France (MEDEF), the largest employer federation in France, organized the meeting at the Hotel Intercontinental Paris Le Grand here this morning.

Sheikh Hasina said France needs to invest to sustain its growth while Bangladesh needs investment to expedite its growth.

"You need competitive sourcing option while we look for diversifying our export destination. This offers a perfect combination for a win-win partnership for both our countries," she said.

The prime minister said that marking the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and France this year, it's an opportune time to reflect on potential new areas of cooperation.

Sheikh Hasina said Bangladesh is a land of opportunities and potentials, having one of the friendliest foreign investment and trade regimes in the region.

Despite many challenges, she said, Bangladesh has achieved 7.28% GDP last year and this powerful momentum has created huge opportunities.

Sheikh Hasina said she is encouraged seeing the growth in bilateral trade and investment between Bangladesh and France in recent years. "Two-way trade between Bangladesh and France stands at over USD 2 billion," she said.