The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

President Prof Dr Iajuddin Ahmed on Thursday hoped that the incoming newly elected government would take over the responsibility of running the country in the shortest possible time.

"The new government will take quick steps for economic development against the backdrop of global financial recession," he said while inaugurating the 14th Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC) here.

The month-long fair beside the BCFCC, jointly organized by the Commerce Ministry and the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), remains open from 10 am to 10 pm daily. Sri Lanka is the partner country of this trade show.

Commerce Adviser Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman, Sri Lankan High Commissioner Vadivel Krishnamoorthy, FBCCI president Annisul Haq, Commerce Secretary Feroz Ahmed and EPB Vice-chairman Shahab Ullah also spoke at the inaugural function. Greeting the countrymen on the occasion of the English New Year, President Iajuddin expressed his satisfaction over the holding of the 9th parliamentary elections "in a free and fair manner" across the county.

He also congratulated the winning alliance and the elected Members of Parliament. The President said different measures are being taken by the developing countries, including Bangladesh, to face the challenges of globalization.

He hoped that 'Bangladesh Better Business Forum', which was formed in November 2007, would be able to play important role in the country's national economy. Referring to the importance of the annual trade show DITF, Dr Ahmed said it brings an opportunity to compare quality and prices of local products with international items.

"We need to give more concentration on expansion of export trade for pacing up the national economy," he observed, as the country's export basket does have wide space to be filled up with newer products.

President Iajuddin welcomed the overseas participants in the DITF and hoped the mutual bonds of friendship and the area of commercial activities between Bangladesh and other countries would be further widened through this fair.

A total of 467 companies, including 22 from 12 foreign countries, are participating in the fair for showcasing their products and services.

Commerce Adviser Hossain Zillur said the government had taken steps to explore new export destinations and the local products already entered some new markets like Canada, South Korea and Turkey.