Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Tuesday announced that the government is currently engaged in discussions with several countries regarding Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), adding that the government plans to expand and strengthen the FTA team to ensure more efficient participation in these crucial negotiations.
Speaking at an introductory meeting for newly appointed Commerce Secretary Md Ataur Rahman Khan at the ministry’s conference room in the Secretariat, the minister highlighted the need for a larger and more skilled team.
He said this would be essential once formal FTA negotiations with the European Union (EU) commence in the future.
To achieve these goals, the government intends to seek international cooperation for capacity building and skill development. Agencies affiliated with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the EU have already expressed their interest in providing support to Bangladesh in this regard.
Welcoming the new Secretary, the minister noted that Ataur’s strong academic and professional background, coupled with his previous experience within the Commerce Ministry, would bring new momentum to its activities.
Muktadir further emphasised the importance of ensuring equal opportunities and fair treatment for all officials, urging an environment where meritocracy is valued and talented individuals can fully utilise their potential without facing unnecessary obstacles.
In his remarks, Ataur called for collective efforts to implement the government’s work plan, the upcoming fiscal year’s objectives, and long-term development goals within the stipulated timeframes.
He sought cooperation from all levels to enhance the capacity of departments and agencies under the ministry and to expedite decision-making and implementation regarding ongoing agreements and policies.
The secretary also stressed the need for rapid inter-ministerial coordination with the ministries of Agriculture, Industry, and Labour, while making the operations of Bangladesh’s commercial missions abroad more target-oriented and result-driven. The meeting was attended by additional secretaries, joint secretaries, deputy secretaries, and other high-ranking officials of the ministry.
