Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has urged Uruguay to strengthen people-to-people connectivity through sports, which could foster deeper bilateral engagements in various areas, including trade and business cooperation.
The chief adviser made the call when the non-resident ambassador of Uruguay to Bangladesh, Alberto Guani, had a courtesy meeting with him at the State Guest House Jamuna on Sunday.
Ambassador Guani told the chief adviser that Uruguay and Bangladesh have many areas of cooperation unexplored, which can hold tremendous potential for the two countries.
"It is commendable Bangladesh being the pioneer to the world in social business," he said.
Uruguay exports wool, soybeans and agro products, among other items, to Bangladesh. While the amount remains modest, the double-digit growth in the trade volume in recent years is quite phenomenal.
Ambassador Guani also identified agriculture, manufacturing, semiconductors, UAV/drones, satellites and specialized technology transfer in IT, among others, as potential areas of cooperation.
The ambassador mentioned more connectivity between Bangladesh and South America and highlighted bridging the gap between the two countries.
Referring to the passion for sports, particularly football in Bangladesh, the chief adviser said: "Both nations have a passion for sports, especially football. We can connect on that. Let us build our cooperation in other spheres as well."
The chief adviser invited the ambassador to help their investors explore investment opportunities in Bangladesh to promote his country.
He also showed his enthusiasm towards renewable and clean energy cooperation that Uruguay promotes.
He suggested that Bangladesh and Uruguay solidify relations and take advantage of each other’s competitive advantage, Bangladesh supporting Uruguay with young and energetic human resources and Uruguay facilitating Bangladesh with technology and skills.
He also suggested the ambassador engage with the relevant facilitating authorities, including BIDA, to accelerate growth.