President seeks more Swedish investment

Sweden can import Bangladesh items, including RMG, pharmaceuticals, leather and jute goods and ceramics at cheap price, he said when the newly appointed Ambassador of Sweden to Bangladesh Britt Falkman Hagstrom presented her credentials to him at Bangabhaban.

Welcoming Ambassador Hagstrom, Iajuddin recalled the cordial bilateral relations existing between Bangladesh and Sweden since 1972.

The President congratulated the envoy on her new assignment in Bangladesh. He assured her of his continued support and assistance in discharging her responsibilities in Bangladesh.

Mentioning that Sweden is one of the reliable development partners of Bangladesh, he recalled with appreciation that Sweden has been extending steady financial support to Bangladesh in rural employment and development, primary education, women empowerment, micro-credit, human rights and democracy.

President expressed thanks that most of the Swedish aid was in the form of grant and appreciated the fact that trade between Bangladesh and Sweden has been increasing gradually. He hoped that there is a great scope to expand and diversify the trade between the two countries.

He said that it was under the Swedish presidency of EU that LDCs were granted duty-free and quota-free access to EU market under EBA (everything but arms) resolution.

Iajuddin requested the ambassador to convey his regards to King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden.

Hagstrom said relation between Sweden and Bangladesh is excellent.

She emphasised on further development of Bangladesh in various fields particularly in primary education and women empowerment.

She said: "Our two countries share similar views on many international issues and have worked closely in various international fora."

Foreign Secretary Hemayet Uddin, Secretary to the President Abu Solaiman Chowdhury and husband of the ambassador were present on the occasion.