State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has called on honorary consuls to serve as strong ambassadors for Bangladesh`s investment potential and help create new opportunities for trade, business and international cooperation.
She made the call while addressing a reception hosted by the Executive Committee of the Consular Corps in Bangladesh (CCB) at a city hotel on Monday night.
Outlining her expectations from honorary consuls, Shama urged them to promote partnerships in technology, education, innovation and skilled employment, expand Bangladesh`s engagement with emerging regions, particularly Africa, strengthen people-to-people ties and help the world better understand Bangladesh.
"Promote partnership in technology, education, innovation and skilled employment. Help expand Bangladesh`s engagement with emerging regions, particularly Africa, strengthen people-to-people connections, and help the world better understand the real Bangladesh," she said.
The state minister said the government views honorary consuls as trusted partners in advancing friendship and international cooperation, stressing that their role extends far beyond ceremonial duties.
"Your role should never be viewed as merely ceremonial. Around the world, honorary consuls have promoted trade, investment, cultural exchanges, education and humanitarian cooperation," she said.
Referring to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman`s "Bangladesh First" foreign policy, Shama said Bangladesh is seeking greater foreign investment, wider export markets, advanced technology, stronger education and healthcare partnerships, increased tourism and practical cooperation on climate resilience.
Highlighting the country`s investment potential, she said Bangladesh offers a young workforce, dynamic entrepreneurs, a growing manufacturing base and a strategic location connecting South and Southeast Asia, making it an attractive destination for investment and regional connectivity.
The reception was attended by ambassadors, high commissioners, heads of diplomatic missions, honorary consuls, representatives of international organisations, senior government officials and business leaders. CCB President and Honorary Consul General of Mongolia Nasreen Fatema Awal reaffirmed the organisation`s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic cooperation.
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