Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday called Bangladesh the most liberal nation for investment, urging Indian investors to invest largely in her country's infrastructure, manufacturing, energy and transport sectors.
"I would urge Indian investors to consider possible investments in infrastructure projects, manufacturing, in energy and transport sectors. Indian investors and business houses can set up industries in Bangladesh through Buy-Back arrangements by reducing time, cost and resources," she said, reports BSS.
She also said that Bangladesh has the most liberal investment regime in the region with a wide array of facilities, attractive incentive policies, and consistent reforms.
The prime minister was addressing a high level business event jointly organised by the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) at the Ballroom of her palace of residence in New Delhi.
Presently, she said 100 special economic zones and 28 high-tech parks are being set up across the country aimed at encouraging investment and rapid economic development through increase and diversification of industry, employment, production and export.
"For the Indian investors, two dedicated Special Economic Zones at Mongla and Mirersharai are being developed. I would urge the business houses present here to invest there," she said.
The premier said it would further pave the way to harness the good will of the two friendly countries, and bring economic prosperity to the region as Bangladesh is uniquely located to enable Indian investors to export their products to not only the North Eastern States of India, but also to Nepal, Bhutan, and to South East Asian countries.
Indeed, she said that the time is ripe for the Indian business community to focus more on Bangladesh and take advantage of its economic growth, cheaper cost and huge consumer base.
Sheikh Hasina said they have implemented mega projects to accelerate the growth of industries and to take full advantage of our strategic location.
The premier mentioned that Bangladesh and India have the best of relations and said the two neighbouring countries' relations are known as the Role Model of Neighborhood Diplomacy.
She went on saying: "Bangladesh is India's most important development and trading partner. India receives the highest number of tourists and medical patients from Bangladesh."
In this connection, she said that thousands of Indian nationals are now working in Bangladesh, contributing to both the economies.
She hoped that deep bonds of friendship existing between Bangladesh and India shall continue to grow and flourish.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
