Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on Monday said Bangladesh made “significant strides” in improving its infrastructure, streamlining regulatory processes, and creating a conducive environment for foreign investment.

“Our strategic location, skilled workforce, and abundant natural resources make us an attractive destination for business and investment,” he informed his Argentine counterpart Santiago Cafiero, and the business entrepreneurs and investors of Argentina.

Momen said that the Bangladesh government is building one hundred specialised economic zones to attract private investments.

The two ministers had a bilateral meeting which was followed by a dinner in honour of the Argentine Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship.

“We had an extensive discussion—I should say a fruitful and productive one –in which we exchanged views and ideas on how to expand and consolidate the existing bilateral relations as well as explore new and emerging areas of cooperation,” he said.

The two countries signed a number of instruments – an agreement on exemption of visa for the holders of diplomatic and official passports, agreement on football cooperation and memorandum of understanding between the Foreign Service Academies in the field of diplomatic training.

“I am confident that signing of these agreements and MoU will greatly facilitate our enhanced engagement and lead to fruitful cooperation in other areas,” Momen said.

Argentina was one of the leading South American countries to recognize independent Bangladesh, on 25 May 1972.

“We attach great importance to our relations with Argentina. The relations between Bangladesh and Argentina have always been cordial based on shared values and friendship,” Momen said.

“I truly believe we have so much to offer and benefit from each other. We need to explore the untapped potentials,” he said.

“What never changed is our love for the great football of Argentina. I wish the bond we have through football will be felt in other sectors as well,” Momen said.