Speaking at the launching ceremony, Commerce Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury expressed hope that the forum would work as a springboard to establish link between the business communities of Bangladesh and Denmark.

"Danish entrepreneurs are now outsourcing many of their activities and services to remain competitive in the global business and no doubt Bangladesh is a potential place for them," he mentioned.

Identifying information technology and shipping as two major areas for increasing trade and investments, Khosru said service is a great potential area for the Danish entrepreneurs.

The commerce minister advised the sponsors to convert the BDBF into a chamber of commerce.

Danish Ambassador Niels S Munk, BDBF Chairman Per Heisselberg, Vice-chairman HT Imam, Privatisation Commission Chairman Inam Ahmed Chowdhury and BDBF Secretary Mujib Ur Rahman also spoke at the function.

In his speech, Munk said Bangladesh has strong potential in many areas which are not being recognised. "It was not easy for the Danish companies to come to Bangladesh but the companies are doing good here." .

BDBF Chairman Per Heisselberg said the forum will work as a bridge between Bangladesh and Danish entrepreneurs.

Forum's Vice chairman said although Bangladesh has an image problem, there are lot of positive things.

He cited the examples of micro-credit operations, increase in food production, poverty reduction and population control as some areas where Bangladesh is doing very well.