The New Nation - Internet Edition

FAILURE to achieve targets of export by our diplomatic missions abroad has been reported in the media. Ironically, the missions that failed to achieve targets are those which are based in countries where traditionally big markets for Bangladeshi goods exist. Some of these missions are in Washington, Rome, the Hague, Bangkok, Manila, Ottowa, Cairo and Brunei. Our diplomatic relations, in general, with the countries where the above missions are based, are good. Despite that lagging behind in export target achievement does not sound good.

The unimpressive and below target performance has been noted in respect of seven commercial wings of Bangladesh missions abroad. Their sole purpose is to promote and popularise Bangladeshi products in countries where they are located. The commercial wings that have performed poorly are those in Berlin, London, Brussels, Madrid, Beijing, New Delhi and Kuala Lumpur. Their poor performance, in turn, would also affect the performance of the export sector. But given the enthusiasm and efficient conduct of activities, the foreign missions can help establish contacts between local and foreign businessmen to facilitate exports from the country.

The below target performance in export trade is, to some extent, blamed on poor diplomatic service. Our diplomats are generally smart in dress. This is not bad but the worse thing is that they do not assume such a disposition for easy sailing of their diplomatic functions of which economic diplomacy now forms an important part. Sadly, thus our diplomats have often not succeeded to perform as superior servants of the republic operating in foreign countries for boosting national image and promoting business. It is high time that such failures are plugged in so that the mission abroad record much better performance on the economic front.