DHAKA, April 23, 2024 (BSS) - A delegation of Commonwealth of Independent

States-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CIS-BCCI), led by its
President Mohammad Ali Deen along with newly-elected Board of Directors,
today met State Minister for Planning Md. Shahiduzzaman Sarker at his office
at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the capital.

CIS-BCCI President briefed the State Minister about various activities of the
CIS-BCCI Chamber for promoting the trade and economic cooperation between
Bangladesh and CIS Countries including Russia in a bid to diversify the
export market to a third destination, said a press release here.

Deen, however, pointed out that at present the main impediment in business
transaction between Bangladesh and CIS countries is banking channel and
emphasized that Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Commerce and Bangladesh Bank
may take appropriate steps for streamlining financial and banking cooperation
between Russia and other CIS countries and Bangladesh.

He further emphasized on carrying forward objectives of the two protocols
signed at IGC (Inter-Governmental Commission) meetings between Bangladesh and
Russia.
 
He especially mentioned about mutual regulatory Cooperation, harmonization of
trade rules and setting up necessary infrastructures including warehouses and
distribution network.
 
The State Minister for Planning appreciated the role of CIS-BCCI and
emphasized on exploring huge market of CIS countries including Russia to
enhance the export basket and competitiveness.

He assured of providing support from his ministry in this respect.
Shahiduzzaman also suggested for a detailed action plan, both short-term and
long-term, for augmenting trade links with CIS countries.
 
President of CIS-BCCI informed that CIS-BCCI works as a South Asian Partner
of ROSSCONGRESS that organizes the mega economic event every year. This year
also CIS-BCCI is hopeful to join SPIEF scheduled to be held during June 5-8,
2024 and requested the State Minister to participate if invitation in
received from SPIEF.
 
Alongside the President of CIS-BCCI, its vice-president Jadab Debnath,
directors Abdul Latif Sarker, Md. Enamul Haque, Khan Md. Iqbal, adviser
Mahbub Islam Runu and secretary of the Chamber Mustafa Mohiuddin were
present, among others, on the occasion.