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Asserting this commitment during a discussion recently, the economic affairs advisor to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Dr. Mashiur Rahman, emphasised Bangladesh’s determination to forge ahead.
“We will not retreat; we will continue progressing,” affirmed Dr. Rahman, adding, “Instead, we will intensify our efforts to prepare for the post-graduate phase, which represents a new frontier for us.”
Expressing concerns about seeking an extension for the graduation timeline, the Prime Minister’s economic affairs advisor remarked, “Such an action would signify defeat for us. Hence, the nation will march forward, demonstrating our commitment.”
Acknowledging the need for prompt preparations for the post-graduate period, Dr. Rahman stressed the importance of concerted efforts to mitigate any time lost.
He delivered these remarks as the chief guest at a knowledge-sharing session themed ‘13th Ministerial Conference of the WTO: What Stakes for Bangladesh?’, organised by the Research and Policy Integration for Development (RAPID) in capital Dhaka.
The event, moderated by Dr. M A Razzaque, chairman of RAPID, featured discussions by prominent figures including Dr. M Abu Eusuf, professor at Dhaka University and RAPID’s executive director. Dr. Mostafa Abid Khan, a former member of the Bangladesh Trade and Tariff Commission (BTTC), delivered the keynote presentation.
Notable attendees included Sharifa Khan, a former senior secretary of the Economic Relations Division (ERD) under the Ministry of Finance, and Professor Mustafizur Rahman, distinguished fellow of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD).
The participants emphasised the crucial role of the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) in shaping future multilateral trade policies, particularly amidst declining global trade growth and escalating geopolitical tensions.
Key negotiation areas such as the e-commerce moratorium, fisheries subsidies, agriculture, WTO reform, and support measures for post-graduation LDCs were highlighted for their potential impacts on Bangladesh’s economic landscape.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DR)