DHAKA, Sept 17, 2024 (BSS) - A delegation from the Foreign Investors’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), led by its President Zaved Akhtar, today met with Lutfey Siddiqi, the Chief Advisor’s Special Envoy for International Affairs, at the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) office in the capital.

The newly appointed BIDA Executive Chairman, Ashik Chowdhury, also attended the meeting virtually from Singapore. The session was presided over by Dr. Khandoker Azizul Islam, Executive Member (Investment Environment Services) of BIDA.

The FICCI delegation congratulated Lutfey Siddiqi and Ashik Chowdhury on their recent appointments and engaged in a productive dialogue regarding the challenges of attracting foreign investment to Bangladesh, said a press release.

President Zaved Akhtar presented a comprehensive overview of FICCI’s activities, outlining key challenges faced by foreign investors as well as the opportunities, and heightened the need for some structural reforms to attract investments.

He emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach to overcoming these challenges and unlocking Bangladesh's potential as a premier destination for international investment.

Special Envoy Lutfey Siddiqi shared his pragmatic and forward-thinking approach to addressing investors' concerns, assuring that the government remains committed to creating a more favorable business environment.

BIDA Executive Chairman Ashik Chowdhury, speaking virtually from Singapore, underscored the importance of continuous efforts to improve the investment climate.

Both the Special Envoy and the BIDA Executive Chairman reiterated their commitment to implementing necessary reforms in collaboration with FICCI and other relevant stakeholders.

“We have many potential investors in the pipeline who are eager to invest in Bangladesh, but they are currently facing several barriers,” said FICCI President Zaved Akhtar.
 
“It is essential that we work together to identify and resolve these issues so we can continue fostering economic growth and attract more foreign direct investment,” added Zaved.

The meeting was attended by members of the FICCI board of directors, advisors, and senior officials from BIDA, including the Director General and other key representatives.