DHAKA, Nov 28, 2023 (BSS) - Mahbubul Alam, President of the Federation of
Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) today laid emphasized
the importance of knowledge, technology, and skills sharing among
commonwealth nations to effectively address the challenges posed by the
Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).

He made these comments during a roundtable discussion on 'Tech and
Innovation: Enabling Trade' held at the Glaziers Hall in London, UK, on the
second day of the Commonwealth trade and investment summit, said a press
release.

FBCCI president attended the discussion as a panelist. Mahbubul Alam
highlighted Bangladesh's vision to transform into a Smart Country by 2041
under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The successful realization of the Digital Bangladesh goal has laid the
foundation, with the integration of technology and artificial intelligence
being the linchpin for future progress, he added.

Emphasizing the need for ethical and responsible technology use, Mahbubul
outlined steps Commonwealth countries can take, including encouraging
innovation through investment, protecting innovators' rights, and enacting
comprehensive regulatory frameworks.

Discussing the rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), the FBCCI
President called for Commonwealth collaboration to ensure knowledge transfer
and the equitable use of Generative AI, suggesting the establishment of a
common digital trade information platform to foster collaboration among the
member countries.

Mahbubul emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between governments
and businesses to facilitate infrastructure development, encouraging private
investment and public-private partnerships.

He urged the Commonwealth to share best practices and provide a platform for
such as, 'Commonwealth Connectivity Agenda for Trade and Investment'.

The FBCCI President also emphasized the importance of collaboration between
the Commonwealth nations in policymaking, knowledge sharing, and financial
support to ensure widespread access to technology, protection of rights, and
the realization of a connected and prosperous future for all Commonwealth
nations.

Vice President of FBCCI Shomi Kaiser, FBCCI Directors, and Business leaders
from the Commonwealth countries were present at the program.