Michael Miller, Ambassador and Head of the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Bangladesh, paid a visit to Anwar Hossain, Administrator of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), at the BGMEA Complex on December 12.
Dr. Bernd Spanier, Deputy Head of the Delegation, was also present at the meeting.
The discussions centered on key trade issues, with a focus on sustainability, strengthening EU-Bangladesh partnerships, and enhancing cooperation between Bangladesh and the EU for the development of the country’s garment industry.
The two sides also explored opportunities for collaboration on corporate sustainability, EU Due Diligence regulations, and aligning Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) sector with new EU legislation.
The discussions also shed light on the industry’s ongoing efforts towards decarbonization and investment in renewable energy, as well as initiatives to promote circularity within the garment sector.
Ambassador Miller and BGMEA Administrator Hossain also discussed potential future partnerships to support the RMG industry in these areas.
During the meeting, Anwar Hossain briefed Ambassador Miller on the current state of Bangladesh’s RMG industry, highlighting significant progress in workplace safety, environmental sustainability, and workers’ rights and welfare.
He mentioned that the government, in collaboration with the industry and stakeholders including the International Labour Organization (ILO), is working actively to further enhance labor rights and welfare standards.
Ambassador Michael Miller commended Bangladesh’s progress in environmental sustainability and expressed the EU’s strong commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s RMG sector, particularly in preparing for compliance with new EU Due Diligence laws.
BGMEA Administrator Anwar Hossain underscored the long-standing and friendly relationship between Bangladesh and the EU, noting that their partnership has only grown stronger over time.
He expressed hope that the EU will continue to provide support and cooperation, especially as Bangladesh transitions beyond its Least Developed Country (LDC) status.
The meeting was an important step in further cementing the collaborative efforts between the EU and Bangladesh, with a shared goal of fostering sustainable growth and resilience in the garment industry.
