Bangladesh can potentially transport goods to China within 24 hours by road if it joins the China-Myanmar economic corridor, Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir said on Tuesday.
Speaking to reporters after attending a workshop and reception for newly enrolled lawyers at the Sylhet District Bar Association, the minister highlighted that China has already granted duty-free access for all Bangladeshi products.
He emphasized that Bangladesh’s current priority is attracting more Chinese investment.
Muktadir also said the cabinet had recently approved the establishment of an 800-acre Chinese industrial park in Chattogram, which he expects will help strengthen bilateral economic ties.
Referring to the prime minister's recent visit to China, the minister expressed optimism that Bangladesh would see a significant inflow of Chinese investment in the coming years.
"The prime minister held meetings with the Chinese premier, senior leaders and major investors during the visit. As a result, we expect substantial Chinese investment in Bangladesh, which will also help reduce the trade deficit," he said.
Responding to a question about criticism over the management committee of the Hazrat Shahjalal (RA) shrine in Sylhet, Muktadir said no one had been appointed to the committee on political grounds.
"The committee was formed through due process and in accordance with the rules," he added.
Earlier, addressing the reception programme as the chief guest, the minister said lawyers play a crucial role in establishing the rule of law, ensuring justice and maintaining social order.
He said a culture of impunity weakens both the rule of law and the social contract, adding that legal professionals are instrumental in protecting citizens' constitutional rights, including equality, freedom from discrimination, the right to life and personal liberty, and freedom of expression.
Muktadir also stressed the need to construct a new building for the Sylhet District Bar Association and establish a modern, regular training system to enhance lawyers' professional skills.
He said continuous training on artificial intelligence (AI), legal research, case analysis and courtroom advocacy would improve lawyers' capabilities and help produce more competent lawyers and judges in the future.
The minister also said he had pledged during the election campaign to make combating online gambling a priority.
He said a new law proposing tougher penalties for online gambling had already been placed before parliament and expressed hope that it would be passed after completing the legislative process.
He also highlighted the government's initiative to establish special tribunals to expedite the trial of drug-related offences.
Bd-pratidin English/TR
