Bangladesh’s Planning Minister, MA Mannan, called on businesses from Commonwealth nations to invest in the country, citing significant strides in infrastructure development. 

Speaking at a seminar during the two-day gathering at the InterContinental Dhaka, Mannan emphasized the economic benefits investors could reap from these developments.

Mannan highlighted the substantial potential for investments in Bangladesh, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry, and stressed the need for capital support. 

This year marked Bangladesh’s first-time hosting of the conference in collaboration with the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the event, which featured nine simultaneous sessions covering various sectors.

In a session focusing on investment potential in Cameroon, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam unveiled the ‘Look Africa’ policy, revealing the opening of embassies in several African countries as part of this initiative.

Bangladesh Bank Governor Abdur Rouf Talukder expressed optimism about digital banks reducing risks in the financial sector by providing paperless financial services. 

The conference, which saw participation from around 300 international representatives and 13 ministers from Commonwealth countries, had partners including the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (Bida), the foreign affairs ministry, and the ZI Foundation.

The Commonwealth of Nations, comprising 56 member states, primarily former territories of the British Empire, remains a prominent international organization fostering cooperation and development among its members.