Oldham business leaders represent the North at international conference

Selected as the North of England’s representatives and in the presence of the Bangladeshi Prime Minister, a team of Oldham business people have just returned from witnessing 'an economic miracle'.

And having learned what has helped Bangladesh go 'from scratch' to having a £1 trillion economy in half-a-century, the small band behind such initiatives as the Asian Business Leaders Awards now has plenty of learning to share back here.

The team attended the Bangladesh International Business Summit 2023, a global trade fair backed by government leaders.

The team included Mashukul Hoque, Anwar Ali OBE and Muzahid Khan DL

The location of the international gathering was particularly significant, given the country’s recent celebration of 50 years’ independence.

And whilst Britain’s economy is struggling at present, Oldham’s historic links with Bangladesh could prove a major shot in the arm for businesses in our borough.

“Like Oldham, Bangladesh’s output has historically been built upon textiles, but it has enjoyed a remarkable upturn over the last 13 years thanks to new technologies,” said Mr Khan.

"More recently investment in transport links, opening of many hi-tech parks and the focus on technology to grow is very promising.

“The country has also invested in people – and that is crucial, providing good education for all and a sense of togetherness.

"That is why I believe they have recovered so well as country from COVID-19.”

Through his business and charitable activities, Mr Khan has seen and honoured many young Oldham businesses that have adopted this same philosophy – with great reward.

“These businesses have very much seen that we are now a global economy and that using our heritage can open up new markets across places such as South Asia,” he continued.

"For people in Oldham that means increased prosperity, more jobs, opportunities to learn new skills and an increasingly friendly relationship with countries beyond these shores.”

The bi-annual conference was organised by The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) and was addressed by H. E. Sheik Hasina, the Honourable Prime Minister of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.

It was very much a showcase of the country’s growth but also fostered links between nations and proved a huge networking opportunity.

Mr Khan and the team met individuals from around the globe – finding some very common ground and familiar challenges.

He concluded: “The World Bank recently said: “To achieve its vision of attaining upper middle-income status by 2031, Bangladesh needs to create jobs and employment opportunities through a competitive business environment, increase human capital and build a skilled labour force, build efficient infrastructure, and establish a policy environment that attracts private investment”.

"To me, this sounds very like what we require in Oldham.

"Our young people need to be equipped with the skills that make them ready for work and our employees, valued.

"Crucially, we need to market Oldham as a place to do business and invest in.

"Thankfully, what I see around me is the will, the enthusiasm and the creativity to do that.”

---

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.