US company Coca-Cola, a global brand in the beverage industry, formally opened its new bottling plant at Bhaluka in Mymensingh on Wednesday as part of its effort to have stronger presence in Bangladesh.

‘A new avenue for Bangladesh’s economic development is opened through opening of Coca-Cola’s new plant here’, said Finance Minister AMA Muhith who attended the function as the chief guest, reports UNB.

He said the plant will help create jobs for unemployed people, and urged the Coca-Cola Company to continue its investment in Bangladesh.

Prime Minister’s Economic Affairs Adviser Dr Mashiur Rahman, US Ambassador in Dhaka Marcia Bernicat, President, Bottling Investments Group, The Coca-Cola Company, Irial Finan and President, Asia Pacific Group, The Coca-Cola Company, John Murphy also spoke.

‘Coca-Cola has invested almost $75 million in the expansion of the Bangladeshi market, which has enormous potential. That’s a great vote of confidence in this country and its people’, said the US Ambassador.

She said by working together the investment climate will continue to improve, which will ensure that more US companies like Coca-Cola will make the wise decision to invest in Bangladesh.

Bernicat thanked the government of Bangladesh for supporting US companies, such as Coca-Cola, to invest in Bangladesh’s future.

She said Corporate Social Responsibility is a two-way street, and for projects to be successful, everyone has to get involved.

‘I’m confident that Coca Cola has great plans for Bhaluka and I strongly encourage and expect the local community find ways to partner with them for the betterment of the entire area.’

The US diplomat said an American company is bringing not only foreign direct investment to Bangladesh, but is also investing in the broader well-being of the country.

‘This is a true win-win for both the United States and Bangladesh, and I look forward to more great things from Coca-Cola going forward in this dynamic Sonar Bangla’, she said.

Unveiling their expansion plan in Bangladesh on Tuesday evening, John Murphy said, ‘We’re strengthening our roots here in Bangladesh.’

Terming Bangladesh an emerging nation, he hoped that they can even bring more prosperity to Bangladesh and to the people here.

It is estimated that over 3 per cent of all beverage consumed daily are trademarked or licensed by Coca-Cola.