Dhaka Seeks Brazilian Investment to Boost Economic Ties

Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter has called for increased Brazilian investment in Bangladesh to bolster economic relations between the two nations. Speaking at a reception on Friday evening, Akhter urged Brazilian Ambassador to Bangladesh, Paulo Fernando Dias Feres, to prioritize securing the first Brazilian investment during his tenure.

The Brazilian embassy in Dhaka hosted the event in celebration of Brazil's 202nd Independence Day at a city hotel. Despite Brazil officially recognizing Bangladesh's independence in 1972, economic ties between the two countries have remained limited.

In his remarks, Ambassador Feres expressed optimism about growing bilateral trade, citing the recent visits of three Brazilian trade missions to Bangladesh in the past year. "There is increasing interest in exploring opportunities," he said, underscoring the potential for further economic engagement.

Akhter also appealed for Brazil’s support in Bangladesh’s bid to join the BRICS group, highlighting the country’s rising influence as a key voice within the Global South. She emphasized the importance of enhancing South-South cooperation, urging Brazil to back negotiations for a preferential trade agreement between Bangladesh and Mercosur, the South American trade bloc.

Ambassador Feres acknowledged the positive state of bilateral relations, noting, “The relationship is in good shape and ready to move forward.” He expressed confidence in the potential for stronger ties between the two countries in the coming years.

The reception was attended by a wide array of political leaders, government officials, diplomats, and dignitaries from various fields, marking a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to strengthen Bangladesh-Brazil relations.