DHAKA, Dec 11, 2024 (BSS) - The newly-appointed Ambassador of Norway to 
Bangladesh Håkon Arald Gulbransen today said his country sees great potential 
in Bangladesh. 

He made the remark while paying his maiden courtesy call on Foreign Adviser 
Md. Touhid Hossain at the foreign ministry this morning, said a press 
release. 

During the meeting, the Ambassador termed the relations between the two 
countries as long-standing which is gradually shifting its focus from 
development cooperation to trade-centric partnership. 

He mentioned Telenor's significant footprint in Bangladesh and aspired for 
more business-to-business ties in future. 

Referring to the close and friendly relations between the two countries, the 
Foreign Adviser welcomed Norwegian support to the Interim Government of 
Bangladesh. 

He underscored the reform initiatives of the present government, particularly 
in the democratic process, governance and economic sector.

Given the significance of trade and investment, the Adviser sought more 
Norwegian investment in Bangladesh, in light of the ongoing efforts of the 
government in creating a better business climate, including effective 'One 
Stop Service'. 

Touhid said the economy of Bangladesh is resilient and suggested Norwegian 
investment in prospective sectors of Bangladesh, inter alia, ICT, renewable 
energy and electronics. 

On the issue of human rights, the Adviser expressed the commitment and 
sincere efforts of the Interim Government in ensuring much better protection 
than before.

Bangladesh acceded to the 'International Convention for the Protection of All 
Persons from Enforced Disappearances' in last August and has just been 
elected Vice President of the UN Human Rights Council, he shared.