DHAKA: Bangladesh has sought a two-year duty-free access for its readymade garment (RMG) products to the US market as the coronavirus situation put the sector in trouble amid cancellations of orders worldwide.

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen made the plea to the US government when he had a telephone conversation with US Deputy National Security Adviser Matthew Pottinger on Tuesday evening.

He also sought US support so that no export order from Bangladesh is cancelled by the US buyers.

Matthew Pottinger, the Adviser of US President Donald Trump hailed Bangladesh's role in dealing with the current situation, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During conversation, he assured Bangladesh of continuing US support to deal with the challenges of COVID-19.

He also appreciated Bangladesh for accepting Rohingyas who floated at deep sea for weeks.

However, Bangladesh Foreign Minister reminded that other countries in the region should also share the burden as it is not the sole responsibility of Bangladesh to give Rohingyas shelter.

Abdul Momen also urged other countries to share responsibilities of over 1.1 million Rohingyas.

He also requested the United States to make special allocations for Bangladesh to ensure food security in the country due to the Corona situation. Mentioning the good investment environment in Bangladesh, he called upon the United States to increase investment in Bangladesh.

The Foreign Minister said as PPEs and masks are now being manufactured here in Bangladesh, the United States can import more of these medical supplies from Bangladesh if needed. The US can also import Bangladeshi medicines, Dr Momen urged. 

Matthew Pottinger thanked Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on behalf of the US President for her letter sent to Trump on the occasion of birth centenary of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.         

BDST: 1255 HRS, MAY 13, 2020
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