Press Roundup

European and American buyers are urging the government to "find a speedy solution to unrest" among workers in the RMG sector, according to this report by Forbes.

11 major foreign buyers have written a joint letter to the government, expressing their concern over the situation. They are calling on the government to resolve the dispute in the "shortest possible time through dialogue between the industry's stakeholders".

The Daily Star reports of further urgings from the European Commission in Dhaka, in the shape of Messrs Frowein (ambassador) and Whiteley (first secy). They met with the commerce minister Hafizuddin Ahmed:

The EC ambassador suggested that the minister arrange a national dialogue among factory owners, buyers, workers' association, and government to overcome the situation*… They also demanded 100 per cent compliance of garment products from Bangladesh.

"The buyers as well as consumers of European Union countries are very sensitive about the compliance issue and it would be dangerous for Bangladeshi apparel exporters if they fail to ensure international standard environment in the garment factories."

A just and equitable stitch right now will save us dozens of stitches in future.

* sounds like what Drishtipat is doing in London! Be there!