Boundaries shouldn’t be barriers to trade: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina -- while speaking virtually at the inauguration of "Maitri Setu" over Feni river today, in the presence of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi -- has said political boundaries should not become physical barriers to trade.

The 1.9 km Maitri Bridge connected Tripura of India with Ramgarh of Bangladesh.

"We're in a region which has remained conservative in opening up and where inter-regional trade is far below its potential. I believe political boundaries shouldn't become physical trade barriers," the Prime Minister remarked during the inauguration.

Sheikh Hasina said Bangladesh expects the inaugurated framework to help the country trade more smoothly with Nepal and Bhutan alongside India.

"We're creating a new era in South Asia, providing connectivity to India. I think the Maitri Setu will further connect the two nations and play a significant role in business, trade and economic development. The event is taking place at a time when we are celebrating the birth centenary of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, golden jubilee of Bangladesh's independence, and 50th year of Bangladesh-India diplomatic relations," she added.

Sheikh Hasina also expected the Feni Maitri Setu to significantly improve the socio-economic condition of the people of Tripura and the surrounding North-Eastern states of India. She hoped it will also contribute towards improving the livelihoods of those living on the Bangladesh side of the bridge.

She said Bangladesh's growth trajectory, and its geographic location make it an extremely attractive South Asian neighbour. As one of the global leaders in textile production, Bangladesh carved its distinct path and has become a favoured destination for foreign investment, she added.

Hasina said Bangladesh is ready to maximise its locational advantage as a connectivity hub between South and Southeast Asia. "We believe the cross-border transport systems that Bangladesh is developing with India is an important step in this regard and will enable us to play an important role in regional trade and commerce," she said.

Sheikh Hasina also said the Feni bridge is a testimony to the Bangladesh government's continued commitment to support neighbouring India in strengthening connectivity in the region, particularly for the northeast of India.

Sheikh Hasina recalled that India opened up its border in 1971 for Bangladesh's people to support their struggle for freedom: "Today, we're building a prosperous region together. I wish successful operation and utilisation of the Feni Maitri Setu."