Shipping, Road Transport and Bridges, and Railways Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam has invited Qatar to invest in Bangladesh's port infrastructure, including terminal construction, logistics and related sectors.

He extended the invitation when Qatari Ambassador to Bangladesh Seraya Ali Al-Qahtani paid a courtesy call on him at the Secretariat on Monday evening.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed port development, maritime trade, logistics, investment and other issues of mutual interest aimed at further strengthening bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Qatar.

The minister said the government is implementing extensive programmes to modernise the country's port infrastructure and enhance its capacity.

He said work is underway to upgrade Chattogram, Mongla and Payra ports to international standards and invited Qatar to invest in the country's port infrastructure, terminal construction, logistics and related sectors.

Describing Qatar as a trusted friend of Bangladesh, Rabiul expressed hope that the strong bilateral relationship would be further strengthened through increased economic and trade cooperation.

The Qatari ambassador praised the development of Bangladesh's port and shipping sector and expressed interest in expanding cooperation and investment in the sector.

At the end of the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in ports, shipping, trade, investment and other areas for the mutual benefit of the two countries.

They also stressed the importance of maintaining regular communication to further strengthen bilateral ties.

Shipping Secretary Zakaria and senior ministry officials attended the meeting.