With its political continuity and well-thought-out development plans as well as its economic sustainability, Bangladesh stands out not only in South Asia but also in other developing countries, said Mongolian Ambassador to Bangladesh G Ganbold.

“I believe these achievements of sustainable economic growth are recognized internationally,” Ambassador Ganbold told UNB in ​​an interview, noting that there are many other opportunities to further expand bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Mongolia in the areas of cultural exchange, trade and economic cooperation.

He said that Bangladesh, as an emerging and growing economy, is achieving truly impressive socio-economic growth under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

In addition to the impressive development of infrastructure, including highways, the supply of electricity and drinking water in rural areas and the increase in agricultural production, the reduction of poverty, the vaccination coverage of children under 5, GDP per capita growth, Bangladesh leads other developing countries, the ambassador said. .

“We are both Asian and developing countries with parliamentary democracy and a market economy,” he said, adding that Mongolia was one of the top five countries to have recognized the independence of Bangladesh, which is why some countries even went to end their diplomatic relations with Mongolia.

Mongolia also co-authored the UN resolution with India and Bhutan in favor of Bangladesh.

“Since then, we have had excellent bilateral relations and successfully collaborated in the international arena,” he said, sending warm greetings to Bangladeshi friends on the 100th anniversary of the Mongolian National Day which falls July 11.

Responding to a question, the Ambassador said that being developing countries, they both have the same challenges, such as the benefits of sustainable economic growth which must be seen through the well-being of people.

He said Mongolia is richly endowed with natural and agricultural resources and light industries, while Bangladesh is well known for its textiles, ready-made garments and pharmaceutical industries.

“Therefore, we can learn from each other’s experience and also promote mutually beneficial trade and economic relations. With the advent of modern means of transport and ICT, tourism is growing exponentially,” the Mongolian envoy said.

He said: “We all know that this pandemic challenge, like the previous ones, will be extinguished through our combined efforts. Once, the beautiful days arrive.

The Ambassador said that tourism has multiple meanings in discovering a new land and meeting people and building meaningful collaboration across the world. “Our economies are still dependent on the climate and calamities, so we must combine our efforts against the adverse effects of climate change and the risks of natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, droughts, typhoons or zud (starvation of snow) and large-scale industrial accidents”.

As a sparsely populated country with four distinct seasons and beautiful landscapes including eternally snow-capped mountain ranges, Mongolia welcomes nearly 4.7-5.0 lakh tourists annually.

With the completion of the construction of a new airport and the emergence of new hotels, Mongolia expects their number to increase to 10 lakh in the coming months.

“Mongolia maintains friendly relations with all neighboring countries and is known as the shortest route from Asia to Europe,” the ambassador said.

Talking about the similarities between Bangladesh and Mongolia, he said that from an early age they read the famous literary character Rabindranath Tagore and through his works got acquainted with hardworking and proud Bengalis.

“We come from a landlocked country, so perceive Bangladesh as an amazing land of lakes and experienced bridge and boat builders. We need to encourage more cultural exchanges and tourism so that our two countries know each other more closely and benefit from their excellent bilateral relations,” he said.

The ambassador said their people are like each other in openness and hospitality and are eager to learn and work hard. “Youth delegations and student teams must talk to each other on a reciprocal basis to get to know each other better.

The envoy said he visited several museums, historical and tourist spots in and around Dhaka such as Lalbagh, Taghat Palace, Cox’s Bazar, National Museum and Sangsad Bhaban. “Based on my limited experience, I feel like Bangladesh is a land of bridges and boat builders.”

“I want to organize an exchange of folk arts troupes that are truly fascinating and representative of their respective cultures,” he added.

The Ambassador wants to visit the boat building shop site and see how they build many different boats. “The varieties and craftsmanship of boat building in Bangladesh is truly amazing! These are indeed material heritages that should be preserved and further promoted as a national brand of tourism and sport.