Foreign minister urges US to allow duty-free entry of RMG products for two years

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen has urged the United States to allow duty-free entry of Bangladesh's apparel items for two years considering the catastrophic situation caused by coronavirus.

He has also urged for the cooperation of the US so that the buyers of the country do not cancel their orders.

The minister said this while talking to Matthew Pottinger, assistant of US President Donald Trump and Deputy National Security Advisor of the country, over the phone on Tuesday, according to a press release of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Pottinger praised Bangladesh's action to tackle the coronavirus situation and assured that the US would continue helping Bangladesh in this regard.

He also thanked Bangladesh for giving shelter to the Rohingyas floating in the sea.

"Giving shelter to the Rohingyas is not only Bangladesh's duty. Other countries should come forward to take responsibilities," Dr Momen told Pottinger.

He also urged the US and other friend countries to take stronger measures in repatriating the Rohingyas.

Besides, the minister requested the US to provide special allocation for Bangladesh to ensure the country's food security during the coronavirus crisis.

He also requested Pottinger to establish several economic zones among 100 such zones of the country.

In reply to a question asked by Pottinger regarding the Digital Security Act, Dr Momen said, "Actions are only taken against those who give misinformation to people and spread religious hatred."

"Bangladeshi media enjoys more freedom than any other country in expressing opinion," he added.

The foreign minister mentioned that Bangladesh is making personal protective equipment and masks now.

He said the US can import these items in higher quantities from Bangladesh.

Momenalso requested the US to import Bangladeshi medicine.