European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has expressed the EU's intent to strengthen collaboration with Bangladesh and explore new partnership opportunities, including a possible Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (CPCA). In a letter to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on January 14, she highlighted the potential for EU investments under the Global Gateway initiative in areas such as infrastructure, climate adaptation, and health. This interest follows a two-day introductory meeting on the CPCA held in early November. The EU, which currently accounts for over 58% of Bangladesh's total exports and provides zero-duty benefits under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP), is crucial for the country's economy. Bangladesh's garment exports to the EU reached $18.15 billion in the January-November 2024 period, making it the second-largest garment exporter to the EU after China. (ICE NEW DELHI)

Fonte notizia: The Daily Star