Khandakar Abdul Muktadir has called for increased Australian investment in Bangladesh’s solar power sector, highlighting the critical role of renewable energy in sustaining industrial growth and meeting rising energy demand.
The appeal was made during a meeting with Susan Ryle at the secretariat in Dhaka, where both sides discussed expanding bilateral trade and strengthening economic cooperation between Bangladesh and Australia.
The minister underscored the government’s efforts to create an investment-friendly environment, with a strong focus on renewable energy, industrial revitalisation and job creation. He noted that assets worth around $7 billion are currently being activated across key industrial sectors through private investment, reflecting growing momentum in the country’s economic development.
For Bangladesh’s textile and manufacturing sectors—both heavily reliant on stable energy supply—greater investment in solar power could play a transformative role by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating energy shortages that often disrupt production.
Ryle highlighted that bilateral trade between the two countries has reached approximately $5.14 billion and continues to expand, with significant potential for collaboration in green energy, innovation and advanced technologies. She also noted that a high-level Australian delegation is currently exploring opportunities in renewable energy and infrastructure development in Bangladesh.
In addition to trade and investment, both sides acknowledged the importance of strengthening cooperation in education and capacity building. Around 28,000 Bangladeshi students are currently studying in Australia, contributing to deeper people-to-people ties and knowledge exchange.
The discussions reflect a shared commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions while enhancing economic partnerships. Expanding solar energy capacity is expected to not only support Bangladesh’s industrial base—including its globally competitive textile sector—but also align with broader climate and sustainability goals.
