Nepal proposes stronger connectivity with Bangladesh

The Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) has promised Nepal full cooperation for cargo transit of any volume in line with the Bangladesh government's directive, after the completion of Bay Terminal in Chattogram and Matarbari Port in Maheshkhali.

CPA's Chairman Rear Admiral SM Abul Kalam Azad made the promise to Nepalese Ambassador to Dhaka Dr Banshidhar Mishra at a courtesy meeting on Tuesday, adding that the port also offers its complete support for boosting trade between the neighbouring countries.

At the meeting, Nepalese Ambassador Dr Banshidhar Mishra proposed a stronger connectivity with Bangladesh through the creation of rail, road and waterways, and sought assistance from the Chattogram port in this regard as well, read a press release.

A two-member delegation led by the Nepalese ambassador visited Chittagong Port earlier in the day.

Addressing the meeting with the ambassador, the CPA chairman also discussed creating special economic zones to increase imports and exports between Bangladesh and Nepal, and enhancing investment and cooperation in the tourism sector.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Dr Mishra said the culture of Nepal and Bangladesh is almost the same and the people of these countries have a very good relationship.

"Nepal has the opportunity to increase cooperation with Bangladesh in the fields of agriculture, technology, tourism, defence, health and education," he said, adding, "In particular, the ports of Bangladesh will be more convenient for Nepal than Kolkata Port in the future."

The Ambassador of Nepal expressed his appreciation and satisfaction over the overall performance of Chittagong Port, mentioning the significance of its location in economic development in Asia.

Describing Bangladesh as a friendly and fraternal neighbour of Nepal, the ambassador sincerely reiterated the assistance of Bangladesh during various disasters in Nepal, especially in the 2015 earthquake.

He also thanked Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for exporting fertiliser and rice and sending Covid-19 medicine to Nepal.

From the CPA, Member (Planning and Admin) Zafar Alam, Member (Finance) Kamrul Amin, Member (Engineering) Commodore M Niyamul Hasan, Member (Harbour and Marine) Commodore Mohammad Mostafizur Rahman, Director (Administration) Mominur Rashid, Director (Security) Lt Col Golam Arifur Rahman Khan, Director (Transport) Enamul Karim, Secretary Md Omar Farooq were present on the occasion.