The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

US Charge D' Affaires Geeta Pasi said, the proper implementation of election roadmap is vital to boost confidence among foreign and local investors.

According to her, the future of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Bangladesh largely depends upon the present Government and their commitment to return to effective democracy through a free and fair national election this year.

Moreover, a long-term decline in corruption will help to maintain that confidence, but only if the campaign is carried out in a fair and transparent manner, she added while addressing the opening ceremony of the U.S. Trade Show-2008 kicks off yesterday at a local hotel in the capital.

CA' Special Assistant for Industry Ministry Mahbub Jamil and AmCham president Syed Ershad Ahmed also spoke on the occasion.

The US envoy said while Bangladesh is in a state of emergency, it is important that fundamental human rights are not ignored, including the rights of workers.

She said the caretaker government has taken up an ambitious agenda and has faced some difficult challenges. Much of what the government is trying to achieve is critical to the long-term economic health of the economy.

Pasi also said, the government needs to continue its efforts in a variety of areas, including preparing for the elections, tackling corruption, and safeguarding basic human rights.

"These efforts are essential to boost business confidence in Bangladesh, and require the support and participation of the business community," she said, adding American companies and their Bangladeshi partners have a vested interest in the political and economic developments unfolding in this country.

Pasi said trade links are an essential part of U.S- Bangladesh bilateral relationship. The U.S. Embassy is committed to facilitating these links to foster the success of businesses in Bangladesh.

The US envoy said economic links and growth at all levels of society is the engine of change that gives people the power to improve their lives. The trade show, co-sponsored by the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh and the U. S. Embassy, is an expression of the shared interest and commitment.

Pasi said the wide range of industries represented by the exhibitors reflects the breadth and depth of U.S. and Bangladeshi commercial interaction. She said in areas such as energy production, industrial equipment, banking, research, medical services, education, and relief organisations, the partnership of U.S. and Bangladeshi companies is vital to the economic advancement of this country.

She expressed satisfaction at the commitment of these companies to innovation, fairness, and excellent customer service and shared their belief in the enormous, long-term economic potential of Bangladesh. A growing number of American business executives are aware of Bangladesh and the enormous potential here, she concluded.