Trade deal with US to be discussed in parliament: Shama Obaed

The US trade deal signed during the final days of the previous interim government will be discussed in parliament, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has said.

She made the remarks on Tuesday at the ministry in response to a question about whether the recently signed trade deal with the US would be discussed prior to its execution.

 “This is not just about one agreement. Bangladesh has many agreements with the United States in different areas -- trade and beyond,” she said.

The state minister noted that such agreements have a direct impact on Bangladesh’s economy and the private sector.

 “So, we will move forward with implementation only after ensuring that each agreement protects Bangladesh’s interests,” she said.

When asked whether those discussions would take place in parliament, she replied: “Of course. There will be discussions in parliament and outside parliament.”