Rushanara Ali in Dhaka

The Bangladesh-born Labour Party MP will meet members of the British business community in Bangladesh, industry and business leaders, political leaders and senior members of the Government, according to a statement published in the British government’s website on Sunday. “This is my first visit to Bangladesh as a Trade Envoy. Besides our historic ties, Bangladesh has exciting opportunities for British companies as its economy is growing impressively. As a great trading nation we in the UK are keen to deepen our trade relationship with Bangladesh,” the statement quoted Rushanara Ali as saying. “During this visit I will discuss mutual prosperity goals with political and business partners. International trade and investment can be a force for good, creating prosperity and opportunity as well as supporting innovation and creativity. I am also keen to ensure Britain continues to have a strong partnership with Bangladesh in promoting further development and tackling the threat of Climate Change,” she added. About the visit of the British trade envoy to Bangladesh, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Alison Blake said: “Ms Ali’s visit is a sign of our commitment to build our trade and investment relationship with Bangladesh. Her visit is a timely opportunity to discuss our commitments to build prosperity for both our countries, supporting Bangladesh’s economic development, and to identify ways to further strengthen our commercial and trade ties.” The UK has strong business interests in Bangladesh and remains the largest foreign investor. Over 240 British companies are operating in sectors including retail, banking, energy, infrastructure, consultancy and education with main centres of operation in Dhaka, Chittagong and Sylhet. The UK is also the third single largest destination for exports from Bangladesh.