Dhaka, Bangladesh (BBN) – The two-day commerce secretary-level meeting between Bangladesh and Burma is set to begin in Dhaka on November 11 aiming to strengthen bilateral trade relations between the two countries, officials said.
Enhancing business and eliminating trade barriers between the two neighboring countries are two major issues to dominate talks, they added.
Besides, establishing a direct air link between Dhaka and Rangoon, removing problems relating to business visa, introducing direct letter of credit (LC) and narrowing down bilateral trade gap are some other important issues to be discussed during the meeting, according to the trade officials.
Prospect of Asian Highway and problems of business visa being issued from Burmese embassy in Dhaka are also likely to be discussed at the commerce secretary-level meeting. Bangladeshi businessmen get only 14 days’ visa and that allows them to travel only to the bordering Rakhaine State of Burma, officially known as Myanmar.
Moreover, with one single entry in the border pass, they are not allowed to move beyond Maundough.
Another most important area for discussion will be on the possibility of establishing a hydroelectric plant in Burma, a tread official reportedly said, adding that Dhaka is expected to attach utmost importance to establishing a hydropower plant to meet the country’s dire need of electricity.
BBN/SSR/AD-05Oct12-8:10 pm (BST)
