Queen Mathilde of Belgium visited a garment factory in Narayanganj to witness the social, environmental and economic progress achieved by the apparel industry in Bangladesh and the contribution of the apparel industry to the empowerment and welfare of women. At that time, she praised Bangladesh’s apparel industry’s transition towards sustainable and responsible production and progress in workers’ rights and welfare.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan accompanied the Queen during her visit to Fakir Apparels Limited. ILO Country Director Tuomo Poutiainen and BKMEA Executive President Mohammad Hatem were present during the Queen’s factory visit.
Fakir Moniruzzaman, Managing Director of Fakir Apparels Limited, welcomed the Queen of Belgium and showed the latest production system, environment-friendly practices and technologies and various initiatives taken by the factory for the welfare of the workers. After that the Queen expressed her satisfaction with the working environment of the garment industry in Bangladesh.
BGMEA President apprised Queen Mathilde of how the garment industry has changed the lives of millions of people, especially women by creating employment opportunities, paving the way for their inclusion in the mainstream of society and bringing positive changes in their lives.
He also apprised the Queen about the exemplary achievements of Bangladesh’s apparel industry in areas such as workplace safety, environmental sustainable development and workers’ rights.
Faruque Hassan informed the Queen about BGMEA’s Sustainable Strategic Vision 2030 and said, “The vision aims to accelerate the growth of the garment industry in a manner that will be sustainable and have a positive impact on the economy, environment and people’s lives. In line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the apparel industry aims to reduce carbon emissions, reduce fuel and groundwater consumption, and increase the use of sustainable raw materials and renewable energy.”
BGMEA President requested the Queen to share the positive stories of the garment industry of Bangladesh with the global platform and international communities.
UN Secretary-General appointed Queen Mathilde as one of the 17 SDG Advocates for 2021-23 as an inspirational and influential figure raising global awareness of the SDGs.
