UK Trade Envoy Baroness Winterton arrived in Dhaka this week to strengthen bilateral trade and economic ties, reaffirming
London's commitment to long-term partnership and shared growth with Bangladesh.
Winterton is on her third visit to Bangladesh, which comes at a pivotal time following the formation of the country's newly elected government in February, said a statement issued by the British High Commission in Dhaka on Monday.
The visit underscored the United Kingdom's intent to deepen cooperation in trade, economic development, higher education, aviation and defence, it added.
During her stay, the envoy is scheduled to hold meetings with senior ministers and government and military officials to discuss priorities for mutually beneficial growth and reinforce the UK's role as a reliable economic partner.
She will also engage with business leaders and representatives of UK companies operating in Bangladesh to explore opportunities for expanding bilateral trade, investment and commercial cooperation.
As part of her programme, Baroness Winterton will visit Bangladeshi export-oriented businesses benefiting from the UK's Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), one of the world's most generous trade preference frameworks.
The scheme provides duty-free market access for a wide range of products, simplifies rules of origin and supports export diversification beyond garments, contributing to long-term economic development and job creation.
Bangladesh is currently the largest beneficiary of duty-free access under the DCTS, supplying competitively priced goods to British consumers while sustaining employment at home.
"The UK and Bangladesh share a strong, historic partnership, and our countries continue to benefit from expanding trade and investment ties," Baroness Winterton said according to the statement.
"I look forward to engaging with government leaders, businesses and entrepreneurs to identify new opportunities that support economic growth and prosperity for both nations," she added.
British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke said Baroness Winterton's visit reflects the importance the UK places on strengthening its partnership with Bangladesh.
"Shared growth and prosperity are at the heart of the UK-Bangladesh relationship. This visit will further solidify our partnership as Bangladesh enters an exciting new chapter," she said.
The UK remains one of Bangladesh's largest export markets and a key development and investment partner, with both sides aiming to advance a more diversified, resilient and high-value economic relationship.
Bd-pratidin English/Lutful Hoque
