State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid Islam said on Saturday that the government is exploring alternative sources of fuel to tackle the country’s energy crisis and may import fuel from Africa if necessary.

She made the remarks while addressing a discussion titled “Upcoming UNGA and Branding of Bangladesh” as the chief guest at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in the capital.

The state minister said, “The government wants to diversify the country’s export basket. Alongside the garment sector, it is also working to promote jute products.”

Shama Obaid said Bangladesh had returned to a democratic process after 17 years of “oppression and misrule”.

“A democratic government has been established in Bangladesh, and after its formation, our prime minister will attend the United Nations General Assembly for the first time,” she said.

The state minister said digital services were also being expanded for investors so that various necessary procedures, including company registration, could be completed easily online.

She said the government wants to create an environment where both foreign investors and Bangladeshis living abroad can invest in the country with ease.

Referring to economic diplomacy as one of the government’s key priorities, Shama Obaid said the government had inherited a fragile economy and a distressed banking sector after taking office.

“We are working to bring the economy back on track,” she said, adding that initiatives had been taken to make the banking sector more transparent and accountable and create a favourable investment environment.

Shama Obaid said simply inviting foreigners to invest in Bangladesh would not be enough; the necessary environment for investment must also be ensured.

“The government is working towards that goal,” she said.