American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) President and CEO Kevin M. Burke released the following statement after a meeting to discuss worker safety in Bangladesh with several Bangladesh government officials, including Foreign Minister Dr. Dipu Moni, Bangladesh Ambassador to the United States Mr. Akramul Qader, and members of parliament.
I am meeting key Bangladeshi officials to discuss how we need to address the critical issues that led to the recent tragedies in Bangladesh's garment industry. Our dialogue was very constructive as we begin high-level discussions with all apparel industry stakeholders in search of practical and sustainable long-term solutions to the serious worker safety issues in Bangladesh.
"We discussed AAFA's long-standing and positive relationship with Bangladesh, including the successful education and training programs AAFA has hosted in Bangladesh.
"We also discussed the important roles all stakeholders have in seeking long-term solutions, including the stronger and more consistent enforcement of building and safety rules.
"We reiterated how transparency is essential to our collective efforts.
"During the meeting, the officials explained many of the immediate steps the government has taken since the recent building collapse. While progress has been made, much more work remains to be done.
"I look forward to continuing a productive conversation with the Bangladesh government and industry as we move forward to improve worker safety in Bangladesh."
