Bangladesh seeks to boost fisheries, livestock cooperation with Italy

Bangladesh has expressed keen interest in strengthening bilateral cooperation with Italy in the fisheries and livestock sectors, focusing on aquaculture, livestock production, marine fisheries, and the blue economy.

Sultan Salauddin Tuku, state minister for fisheries and livestock, expressed the interest in a meeting today with Luigi D'Eramo, Italian undersecretary of state for agriculture, food sovereignty and forests, held on the sidelines of an event at the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

Highlighting the pivotal role of the fisheries and livestock sectors in ensuring food security, nutrition, employment, and livelihoods in Bangladesh, the state minister said fish and livestock farmers will soon be brought under the “Farmer Card” scheme, enabling them to receive government incentives similar to those provided to crop farmers.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to building a sustainable, climate-resilient, and technology-driven aquaculture ecosystem, the state minister noted that cooperation with Italy could be further expanded through advanced technology transfer, research, specialised training, and the exchange of expertise.

Bangladesh Ambassador to Italy ATM Rokibul Haque, Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock Joint Secretary Md Saiful Islam, and Economic Counsellor Md Al Amin were present, among others.