Staff Reporter
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam yesterday highlighted Bangladesh’s aspiration to
emerge as a global manufacturing hub while seeking to attract foreign investors through the upcoming
Commonwealth summit.
She made the remarks during a courtesy meeting with Arif Zaman, Executive Director of the
Commonwealth Businesswomen’s Network, at the foreign ministry yesterday.
The meeting focused on strategies to promote Bangladesh as an attractive investment destination during
the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), scheduled to be held in Antigua and
Barbuda in November 2026.
The two sides discussed presenting Bangladesh to prospective investors as a country offering policy
continuity and stability, alongside its ambition to become a manufacturing hub for the world.
They also exchanged views on strengthening agriculture and rural enterprises, exploring sustainable
opportunities in the blue economy, and expanding investment in renewable energy and the circular
economy.
The discussion further covered the Commonwealth Women’s Forum, to be held on the sidelines of
CHOGM, and how the platform could be used to empower women entrepreneurs and help them realise
their full potential.
The meeting underscored the scope for leveraging Commonwealth platforms to showcase Bangladesh’s
investment potential and deepen engagement with international investors.
