He said these things as the chief guest at the foundation stone laying ceremony of the 'China Economic and Industrial Zone' (CEIZ) on the east bank of the Karnaphuli River in Anwara, Chattogram on Monday (July 27).

The Finance Minister said the current government has continued policy and institutional reforms to create an investment-friendly environment. This industrial zone, developed in a joint venture with China, will play a vital role in the country's industrialization, export growth and employment generation.

He said the government has taken initiatives to launch a full-fledged 'Single Window Service' to reduce harassment of investors and provide all kinds of approvals quickly. Besides, various steps are being taken to attract strategic foreign investment in the capital market and capital sector.

Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said the government is giving equal importance to ensuring workers' housing, modern living standards, and preserving the environment and biodiversity alongside industrialization. The government's goal is to deliver the benefits of economic growth to the common people through sustainable industrialization.

Calling upon the Chinese partners to establish a modern 'Skill Development Center' in the Anwara industrial area, he said that if skilled human resources can be developed, the domestic industry will become more competitive and new employment opportunities will be created for the local youth.

The Finance Minister further said that the China-Bangladesh Economic and Industrial Zone is not just an industrial project; it is an important milestone to further strengthen the economic cooperation between the two countries. He expressed hope that the implementation of this project will open a new horizon for foreign investment in Bangladesh.