By S Ramesh, Channel NewsAsia
DHAKA : Singapore Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong has urged the leaders of the moderate Muslim nation to open up the country's economy to attract foreign investment and also to play a leading role in the fight against terrorism.
It is the first time a head of government from Singapore has visited Bangladesh, and Mr Goh hopes his visit will help stimulate bilateral cooperation and lift relations to a higher plane.
His vision was shared by Bangladesh.
"A considerable number of Bangladeshis working in Singapore are not only trying to improve their lives but also contributing to the economies of both countries. The strength of our ties lies in the mutuality of benefits. I believe there exists enormous potentials still unexplored in various sectors," said Bangladesh Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.
But for this to be realised, Mr Goh urged the political and business leaders of Bangladesh to open up the country's economy, especially its air and sea links, so Singapore companies can tap the economic potential.
On its part, Singapore has signed an investment guarantee agreement to make Bangladesh more attractive to investors.
The Bangladesh economy is projected to grow between six and seven percent; with the government's look east policy, Mr Goh says Bangladesh is also poised to ride on East Asia's growth.
But this potential cannot be fully realised unless peace and stability prevails, and that is why all countries, Mr Goh said, must unite and fight the common enemy -- terrorism.
"The ideological battle against the extremists must be fought primarily by the Muslims themselves. They cannot afford Islam to be hijacked by the terrorists for their own political ends. A moderate Muslim country like Bangladesh must play a leading role in the fight against terrorism," he said.
So Mr Goh has invited Bangladesh to join the proposed Asia-Middle East Dialogue, which he mooted earlier this year.
The initiative aims to promote the true message of Islam to the rest of the world. The first meeting will be held before the end of the year. - CNA
