Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Faruque Hassan met with Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, European Commission in Brussels Joost Korte on Wednesday.

BGMEA President requested the European Union to continue its trade benefits for Bangladesh even after the country’s graduation from LDCs.

They discussed various issues including the progress made by Bangladesh on the labour conditions and national action plan and road map to achieve the parameters towards obtaining GSP Plus.

The issue of the EU’s support for a smooth transition of Bangladesh’s LDC graduation also got due importance in the meeting.

BGMEA President Faruque Hassan apprised Joost Korte of the vast progress in Bangladesh’s apparel industry, especially in maintaining labour standards and workers’ welfare.

He also highlighted the contribution of the RMG sector to transforming the lives of millions of workers, mostly women who now have dignity in society and family and a voice in decision-making.

He also gave an account of how the development of the industry has alleviated poverty in rural areas with massive employment and paved the way for education for young girls.

Faruque Hassan mentioned the progress made by Bangladesh in workplace safety and workers’ rights through collaboration of the global brands and retailers, manufacturers, government, ILO, development partners, and local and global unions.

He also briefed Joost Korte about the committed efforts of the industry to carry forward the progress in workers’ rights and welfare.

He also requested the EU’s support for Bangladesh in attaining GSP Plus, especially for the apparel sector in getting benefits under the scheme, which would contribute to its sustainable development.

The meeting was also attended by Commerce Secretary of Bangladesh Tapan Kanti Ghosh while Director of Labour Mobility at the Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion of the European Commission Jordi Curell and International Relations Officer Daniel Klein, Unit for International Affairs at the Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion of the European Commission, were also present.