EU's assistance to grow

European Union's (EU) envoy William Hannah has stated that the GSP facility enjoyed by Bangladesh is set to continue. Indeed, going by Mr. Hannah's press statement, EU hopes to have further trade links with the country in the coming years. All this of course is good news for us, especially with EU coming on board with the Accord signed to improve the working conditions and safety-related compliance issues of garments industry in the aftermath of the twin-disasters at Rana Plaza and Tazreen Fashions Ltd. The government for its part has its work cut out to meet certain deadlines in order to preserve the confidence of the EU facility.
What we gather from the minister's remarks is that peaceful environment and continuation of dialogue between the contending political blocs are something that the EU would keep its eyes on. Indeed, the continuation of dialogue that would settle differences over the negotiating table are of paramount interest to all concerned, both domestically and internationally. A repeat of the blockade of the capital city which not only hurt trade, commerce and everyday lives of ordinary citizens is something we can all do without. For trade and commerce to recover and flourish, a congenial atmosphere needs to exist. Compliance issues need to be taken into account and addressed seriously by the government. We are very good at making commitments and not delivering on them, but this must change if we wish to continue to enjoy special privileges.