Shahidul Islam, Sylhet
EBFCI organizes 'Business Beyond Borders' in Sylhet, strengthening economic ties between Europe and Bangladesh The Europe-Bangladesh Federation of Commerce and Industry (EBFCI) organized a business meeting on February 12, 2025, at Rose View Hotel, Sylhet.
The event was presided over by Mohammad Ali, Executive Director and Country Head of Bangladesh, Europe-Bangladesh Federation of Commerce and Industry (EBFCI).
The seminar was attended by Bangladeshi business leaders from Sylhet residing in Europe and various countries. It brought together prominent business leaders, policymakers and industry experts to discuss economic cooperation, innovation and sustainable development between the two regions of Europe and Bangladesh for the purpose of successful business.
Michael Miller, Ambassador and Head of the European Delegation to Bangladesh, was the chief guest.
Michael Miller said, reaffirming the European Union’s commitment to strengthening trade and investment relations with Bangladesh. Mr. Miller stressed the importance of European investors in Bangladesh and called them “champions” who play a key role in expanding and promoting investment in the country. He highlighted that Bangladesh represents more than just an emerging market for the European Union – it is a significant opportunity. Mr. Miller pointed to the urgent need for Bangladesh to explore ways in which it can diversify its economy and create a more investment-friendly environment.
Furthermore, he acknowledged the valuable contribution and ongoing efforts of the Europe-Bangladesh Federation of Commerce and Industry (EBFCI). Mr. Miller confirmed that both the EU Chamber of Commerce and the EBFCI will closely cooperate to support and encourage the growth of Bangladeshi businesses, ultimately contributing to the economic development of the country.
Mohammad Ali delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the importance of fostering partnerships that drive economic progress for businesses in Bangladesh and especially in Sylhet. In his speech, he said that at EBFCI we strive to represent and support businesses across Europe, advocating for policies that foster a thriving economic environment as well as focus on sustainability, innovation and inclusion. Partnerships between industry leaders, policymakers and institutions like the EU are vital, critical to creating an environment where European Unions cannot simply survive as businesses. Ensuring an unwavering commitment to building a strong, dynamic economy and listening to and understanding business interests is a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to build a strong business alliance that benefits us all.
The event featured insightful discussions on trade, sustainability and investment, as well as a presentation on the EBFCI delegation’s visit to Bangladesh. Participants praised the initiative as an important platform for engagement, expressing strong interest in future collaborations, especially in the Sylhet region.
Also present at the event were Sylhet Women's Medical College Principal Professor Dr. Fazlur Rahim Kaiser. Sylhet Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry Director Alhaj Mohammad Kaptan Hossain. Sylhet Women's Medical College Hospital Director Brigadier General (Retd) Dr. GM Monirul Islam. The Sylhet Chamber of Commerce and Industry Director Arif Hossain. Sylhet Private Hospital and Diagnostic Center Association President Dr. Nasim Ahmed. Shahjalal University of Science and Technology Professor Dr. Fazle Elahi Md. Faisal. (EBFCI) Administration and Communication Secretary Matiur Rahman Bhuiyan. Invited guests, representatives of print and electronic media, etc.
