Bangladesh-Europe Collaboration Sets the Stage for Sustainable Innovation in Amsterdam.
The two-day nation-branding event that has captured the attention of industry leaders and innovators alike, the “Best of Bangladesh Europe” kicked off at the vibrant Wastergas venue in Amsterdam on Monday. Organized in tandem by the Bangladesh Apparel Exchange (BAE) with support from the Embassy of Bangladesh, the Ministry of Commerce, Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), and in association with PDS, this national branding event promises to reshape the narrative of Bangladesh’s global standing.
The event commenced with a poignant speech from Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi, who reflected on Bangladesh’s remarkable journey over the past half-century. “Emerging from a brutal war of independence and facing numerous constraints, the aspiration, innovation, and resilience of our people have brought us to a stage of remarkable stability and robust growth,” Minister Munshi declared.
The Netherlands’ Vice Minister of Foreign Economic Relations, Michiel Sweers, expressed his warm welcome on behalf of the Dutch government. “I welcome you all and thank you for choosing Amsterdam as the location for Best of Bangladesh. I believe the dialogues here will accelerate the momentum of sustainable business,” Sweers affirmed.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shahriar Alam, highlighted the event’s significance, noting the presence of Bangladesh’s top entrepreneurs under one roof at Westergas. He emphasized their shift beyond labor-centric manufacturing, expressing their keenness to explore various sectors and forge partnerships in technology and innovation with their Dutch and European counterparts.
Professor Jan Peter Balkenende, Minister of State and former Prime Minister of the Netherlands, emphasized the potential of Netherlands-Bangladesh cooperation for sustainable growth in a video message.
Mostafiz Uddin, the founder and CEO of Bangladesh Apparel Exchange, underscored the event’s purpose, saying, “Best of Bangladesh Europe is a testament to Bangladesh’s prowess in sustainable and responsible manufacturing.”
Ambassador M Riaz Hamidullah, Bangladesh’s ambassador to the Netherlands, highlighted the growing economic ties between Bangladesh and Europe, emphasizing the diverse range of interests and considerations.
The inaugural ceremony witnessed the signing of three memoranda of understanding (MoUs) that will undoubtedly contribute to the development of Bangladesh’s industries. Over 35 companies from various sectors, including apparel, textiles, agriculture, handicrafts, and more, participated in the event, showcasing their innovative products and forging connections that promise to redefine the future of Bangladesh’s global partnerships. The “Best of Bangladesh Europe” event marks a significant step towards sustainable innovation and collaboration on an international scale.
