Foreign minister defends Bangladesh-US trade deal, cites global examples
Countries like Indonesia have agreed to even higher numbers of similar provisions
Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman today (5 May) defended Bangladesh's position in its reciprocal trade agreement with the US, urging critics to view the deal in a global context and compare it with similar agreements signed by other countries.
He made the remarks after a meeting with a delegation led by Assistant US Trade Representative for South and Central Asia Brendan Lynch in the capital.
Responding to a question on the conditions of the deal, the foreign minister said open discussion on such agreements is important. "It is very good that there is discussion on this, and any agreement should be open to debate."
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"We are not the only country to sign such agreements. Other countries around the world have done the same," said the foreign minister.
He cited examples, saying that countries like Indonesia have agreed to even higher numbers of similar provisions.
"So, when you read Bangladesh's agreement, you should read it alongside those of Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia and others. That way, you will be able to better understand the context," he added.
