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Dhaka: US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen assured support for increasing port-centric foreign investment in Bangladesh, with particular emphasis on Chattogram Port, during a visit to the country's principal seaport.
Leading a five-member delegation, the ambassador visited Chattogram Port yesterday (26 January) and later held a courtesy meeting with Chattogram Port Authority Chairman Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman, according to a press release.
During the meeting, the port chairman briefed the US delegation on recent developments at Chattogram Port under the interim government, reports The Business Standard.
Moniruzzaman said the port has undergone a series of reforms despite long-standing challenges, including irregularities, labor unrest, the influence of pressure groups, fire incidents, and obstacles to digitalization.
He said the measures have led to record container handling, reduced vessel turnaround time, and increased profitability.
He also highlighted the appointment of foreign operators at the Pangaon and Laldia container terminals, as well as progress on the Bay Terminal and Matarbari Port development projects.
"If the Matarbari deep-sea port and the Bay Terminal become operational, Chattogram Port will have direct shipping connectivity with global ports and handle cargo from neighboring countries, turning it into a South Asian maritime trade hub," Moniruzzaman said.
In response, Ambassador Christensen said the United States would support efforts to attract more foreign investment centered on port infrastructure in Bangladesh.
He also expressed Washington's willingness to assist in making Chattogram Port more efficient, modern, and globally competitive.
The US envoy further said he expects continued cooperation from Chattogram Port in clearing goods exported from the United States.
The US delegation included Embassy Economic Unit Chief Michael Pinel, Commercial Counsellor Paul Frost, Political Specialist Firoz Ahmed, and Economic Specialist Asif Ahmed.
Chattogram Port Director (Administration) Omar Faruk and Secretary Mohammad Azizul Mowla were also present at the meeting.
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