‘Invest in our energy sector’

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday urged oil-rich Qatar to invest in Bangladesh’s energy sector, especially in renewable energy.

“We remain open to investment proposals in our infrastructures and logistics sectors. We believe there is scope for Qatari investment in the energy sector, including in renewable energy,” she said.

The premier was addressing the Doha Investment Summit 2023 titled “The Rise of Bengal Tiger: Potentials of Trade and Investment in Bangladesh”, held at The St Regis Doha.

Hasina said Bangladesh could benefit from Qatar’s expertise in offshore gas exploration and energy distribution systems.

The PM urged the businesspeople from Qatar to look at certain thrust sectors in Bangladesh. She invited a delegation of Qatari businesspeople to visit the country soon.

“I also urge the non-resident Bangladeshis based in Qatar to invest in Bangladesh. We need your participation in our nation-building efforts,” she said.

Hasina said that Bangladesh’s bilateral relations with Qatar should be readjusted based on a mutually beneficial economic partnership as there is immense untapped potential.

She also put emphasis on setting up a joint committee on trade and investment and a joint business forum to bring private sectors on a single platform.

The PM said Bangladesh’s agricultural growth also creates scope for cooperation in agro-processing industries, with buy-back arrangements.

“We have plans to set up three special tourism zones, where Qatar can engage in both real estate and hospitality sectors.”

She said the country’s vibrant start-up scene is ready to draw Qatari investment.

Qatari investors, she said, can consider portfolio investment in Bangladesh.

“Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission is working hard to further develop our capital markets. We have taken several steps to establish our bond market on a solid footing. We are soon going to include derivative products in our capital markets,” the PM said.