UNCTAD keen to support Bangladesh's reform drive

Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy Lutfey Siddiqi held a series of important bilateral meetings in Geneva, Switzerland, this week, focusing on enhancing international cooperation and support for Bangladesh’s development.

Siddiqi met with UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan at her office on 4th November. They discussed UNCTAD’s contribution to thought leadership and agenda-setting at the intersection of trade and development, a spokesperson for the CA office said on Thursday.

Secretary-General Grynspan expressed her office's readiness to enhance cooperation and provide technical assistance to Bangladesh on its reforms journey, including the implementation of the DMFAS platform and upgrading of the ASYCUDA system used by Bangladesh customs.

The Special Envoy also met Zhang Xiangchen, Deputy Director-General of the World Trade Organization, on 5th November. They discussed possible avenues to enhance South-South dialogue and the WTO’s potential support in facilitating Bangladesh’s LDC graduation.

Siddiqi had a meeting with Daren Tang, Director-General of the World Intellectual Property Organization, on 6th November at the Director-General’s office. They discussed the constructive role of a developed IP ecosystem in attracting foreign investment and fostering diversified exports from Bangladesh. WIPO stands ready to support Bangladesh and provide effective technical cooperation for IP development.

Special Envoy Siddiqi was in Geneva as part of the delegation to the International Labour Organization (ILO), led by Law Adviser Asif Nazrul and Labour Adviser Asif Mahmud.

Earlier, the group met with the Director-General of the ILO, Gilbert F Houngbo, who expressed support and optimism for Bangladesh’s reform agenda.

mirmostafiz@yahoo.com