Bangladesh News Bangladesh Foreign Affairs

[Isa Khan]

• Industry promoting to new markets including Gulf as exports fall in US and Europe
• Garment industry employs four million people and accounts for 80% of nation’s exports

DHAKA: Bangladesh has reported significant growth in garment exports to Saudi Arabia and the UAE in the last year, as the South Asian nation boosts efforts to expand its key market in the Gulf.

The garment sector accounts for 80 percent of the country’s exports and 11 per cent of its GDP. Four million people work in the industry and Bangladesh is the world’s second-largest supplier of clothes after China.
The country made $42.6 billion between July 2021-June 2022 from garment exports, with the EU and the US the biggest markets.

However, the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association said that sales had dropped in traditional markets since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, prompting a reorientation of its promotion strategy to other areas, especially the Middle East.

“We have been trying to increase dependency on non-traditional markets, so we targeted the Gulf and Middle Eastern countries,” Mohiuddin Rubel, director of the association, told Arab News.

Its data shows sharp growth in exports to the region, especially Saudi Arabia, where they increased 40 per cent in the last financial year to $125 million. In the UAE, they grew 21 percent to $183 million.

“To boost our export potential to the Kingdom and other Middle Eastern markets, we have been trying to increase our presence in this region. Last week, we just concluded the Bangladesh Expo in Riyadh, where our garment exporters were the key participants. It was a part of our promotional campaign,” Rubel said.
“The more we can reach the Saudi local brands, the more it will be beneficial for us. Definitely, there are immense potentials over there.”

Prof. Mustafizur Rahman of the Centre for Policy Dialogue in Dhaka told Arab News that opportunities were indeed there for Bangladeshi producers.

“The Middle East imports a significant amount of apparel every year and Bangladesh’s share is very small. It’s mainly China, India, and others. There is an opportunity for the replacement of those exporting countries by Bangladesh.”

As about 2.5 million Bangladeshis live and work in Saudi Arabia, and another 700,000 in the UAE, they are also a target group in the efforts to introduce Bangladeshi products in the region. Rahman said the large numbers were a captive crowd. “That is another advantage for us.”

Bangladesh sees sharp growth in clothing exports to Saudi Arabia and Gulf

DHAKA: Bangladesh has reported significant growth in garment exports to Saudi Arabia and the UAE in the last year, as the South Asian nation boosts efforts to expand its key market in the Gulf. The garment sector accounts for 80 percent of the country’s exports and 11 per cent of its GDP. Four...

www.arabnews.com

 

[Isa Khan]

Bangladesh today signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Argentina in order to increase bilateral trade and investment between the two countries.

The South American country, one of the main food-producing nations in the world, is an important trading partner of Bangladesh, which imports several commodities, namely soybean seeds and soybean oil from Argentina.

The MoU will create the opportunity to strengthen food security and bilateral trade, said the commerce ministry in a press release after the signing of the deal at its office today.

Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi and Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship of Argentina Santiago Andres Cafiero signed the MoU.

Bangladesh, Argentina sign deal to expand bilateral trade

Bangladesh today signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Argentina in order to increase bilateral trade and investment between the two countries..The South American country, one of the main food-producing nations in the world, is an important trading partner of Bangladesh, which im

www.thedailystar.net

Saudi Arabia has assured Bangladesh of extending cooperation when it sought duty-free access for 213 products to the market of the kingdom.

The development came when Salman F Rahman, private industry and investment adviser of the prime minister of Bangladesh, held a meeting with Saudi Commerce and Media Minister Majid bin Abdullah Al Qasabi at the latter's office in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.

Rahman also sought the Saudi minister's support in setting up a joint venture for a urea fertiliser company.

Mentioning the excellent relationship between the two countries, Qasabi said he would provide all kinds of support towards this end, according to a press release of the Bangladesh embassy in Riyadh.

In a separate meeting, Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) CEO Abdulrahman Al-Fageeh also welcomed the concept note on the fertiliser factory presented by Salman F Rahman. He agreed to proceed with the idea.

Al-Fageeh also agreed to go ahead with Bangladesh's idea of establishing a strategic business relationship in manufacturing artificial fabric as Bangladesh's readymade garment sector has the associated capability.

He said Bangladeshi businesspeople could discuss the matter with SABIC.

Qasabi will lead a delegation to the Bangladesh Business Summit, to be held in Dhaka on March 11-13.

They also talked about a joint business council meeting to be held in Bangladesh during the summit.

About two million Bangladeshis work in Saudi Arabia, which is a major source of migrant remittances and fuel oil.

Bangladesh maintains a strong relationship with Saudi Arabia, a major member of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

Bangladesh's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Jabed Patwary and other officials of the embassy were also present during the meetings.

Saudi assures of help as Dhaka seeks duty benefit for 213 products

Saudi Arabia has assured Bangladesh of extending cooperation when it sought duty-free access for 213 products to the market of the kingdom.

www.thedailystar.net

 

[Isa Khan]

Bangladesh will ask Russia to amend the relevant clauses of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) project financing agreement in the next meeting later this month.

The matter will be raised in the meeting of Bangladesh-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission (BR-IGC), sources said.

The Bangladesh delegation will seek to make some amendments in the agreement in the meeting.

According to sources in the Economic Relations Division, the three-day meeting of the Bangladesh-Russia Intergovernmental Commission (BR-IGC) on Trade, Economy, Science and Technical Cooperation will be held from March 13 to March 15.

Economic Relations Department (ERD) Secretary Sharifa Khan will lead the Bangladesh delegation in that virtual meeting.

Dhaka Tribune could not reach her for comments over the phone despite repeated attempts on Friday.

Bangladesh to ask Russia to amend Rooppur project financing agreement

The matter will be raised in the meeting of Bangladesh-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission

www.dhakatribune.com

 

[Isa Khan]

Mexican Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard has announced opening an embassy in Bangladesh in the second half of the year.

He made the announcement when he met Foreign Minister Abdul Momen on the sidelines of G20 foreign ministers meeting in New Delhi on Friday, foreign ministry officials said.

The Mexican foreign secretary said with a population of over 170 million, Bangladesh is a major player in South Asia.

Mexico is interested in boosting business and cooperation with Bangladesh, particularly in the pharmaceutical, agribusiness, and technology sectors, he added.

Bangladesh already has an embassy in Mexico.

Mexico to open embassy in Bangladesh

Mexican Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard has announced opening an embassy in Bangladesh in the second half of the year

www.thedailystar.net

 

[Isa Khan]

Vice Admiral Fahad Bin Abdullah Al-Ghofaily, Chief of Staff of Royal Saudi Navy arrived in Dhaka on Monday on a four-day official visit. He paid a courtesy call on Chief of Staff of Bangladesh Navy (CNS) Admiral M Shaheen Iqbal at the Naval Headquarters on Monday.

A smart naval team accorded guard of honour to the Saudi Naval Chief as he arrived in Navy Headquarters. Earlier on Vice Admiral Fahad Bin Abdullah Al-Ghofaily placed flowers at Shikha Anirban and paid tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War of 1971. He also signed in the inspection book.

Vice Admiral Fahad Bin Abdullah Al-Ghofaily placed flowers at the portrait of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Dhanmondi 32. During his tour, the Saudi Naval Chief is scheduled to meet the Prime Minister's Military Adviser and Chief of Staff of Bangladesh Army and Chief of Staff of Bangladesh Air Force. Vice Admiral Fahad Bin Abdullah Al-Ghofaily will leave Dhaka on 8 March.​

Saudi Navy Chief meets CNS | The Asian Age Online, Bangladesh

Vice Admiral Fahad Bin Abdullah Al-Ghofaily, Chief of Staff of Royal Saudi Navy arrived in Dhaka on Monday on a four-day official visit. He paid a courtesy call on

dailyasianage.com

 

[Isa Khan]

During his tour, the Saudi Naval Chief is scheduled to meet the Prime Minister's Military Adviser and Chief of Staff of Bangladesh Army and Chief of Staff of Bangladesh Air Force. Vice Admiral Fahad Bin Abdullah Al-Ghofaily will leave Dhaka on 8 March.​

https://twitter.com/i/web/status/1633203161363095553

 

[Isa Khan]

Bangladesh is set to welcome a high-level Saudi delegation to the Bangladesh Business Summit over the weekend amid plans to establish a joint business council, said the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FBCCI) on Thursday (9 March).

The Bangladesh Business Summit 2023 is an international trade and investment promotion event hosted by the FBCCI reports Arab Times.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will open the conference, which will take place in Dhaka on 11-13 March, and will include 200 delegates from all over the world.

Seven foreign ministers will attend, with Saudi Commerce Minister Majid bin Abdullah Al-Qasabi invited as one of the event's key guests.

"Saudi Arabia is very interested in investing in Bangladesh, especially in the energy and infrastructure sector. The Saudi commerce minister will be attending the summit along with 23 government officials," FBCCI President Jashim Uddin said.

"With this Saudi delegation, more than 35 Saudi businessmen from different sectors will join in the summit," he added.

He said that several memoranda are expected to be signed during the summit with the Saudi side, including the formation of a bilateral business council, and cooperation between the operator of the Kingdom's new flagship container terminal in Jeddah and Chattogram Port.

"They are very interested in investing in Bangladesh. A few MoUs will be signed with them. The formation of the Bangladesh-Saudi Business Council will be announced here during the summit in the presence of the Saudi minister. Apart from plenary sessions and parallel sessions, there will be a separate session with the Saudi business delegation as a part of the side event," the FBCCI president further said.

"Red Sea Gateway Terminal will sign an MoU with our Chattogram Port authorities for building infrastructure over there. They are also interested in investing in the (Bangladeshi) solar energy sector."

Bangladesh is one of the world's fastest-growing economies and is expected to be the 25th largest by 2035. In the past decade, the country's economy has grown from $50 billion to $470 billion.

Having laid out its grand vision to become an upper-middle-income country in the next 10 years and a developed country by 2041, the South Asian nation is now seeking to expand its formal sector by enhancing trade and investment.

"We have around 70 percent of the population in working age. We want to make this population our human capital. For this, we need investment and industrialization. To build a smart Bangladesh, we need local investment as well as foreign investment," Uddin said.

"According to the HSBC bank, Bangladesh will be the ninth-largest consumer market soon. This market of 170 million people is very lucrative to foreign investors also."

Bangladesh gears up to establish joint business council with Saudi Arabia

Bangladesh is set to welcome a high-level Saudi delegation to the Bangladesh Business Summit over the weekend amid plans to establish a joint business council, said the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FBCCI) on Thursday (9 March). The Bangladesh Business Summit 2023...

www.tbsnews.net

 

[Isa Khan]

Bangladesh has signed an agreement and 3 memoranda of understanding (MoU) with Saudi Arabia and China on an inaugural day (Saturday) of Bangladesh Business Summit 2023.

An agreement has been signed with a Saudi Company to set up gas pipelines through India and Bangladesh under a public-private partnership (PPP) basis.

Besides, two MoUs were signed with Saudi Arabia for developing Rangpur Sugar Mills and Patenga Container Terminal, another MoU was signed with China for infrastructure development.

The Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) also signed a memorandum of understanding with China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPET).

The FBCCI is organizing a 3-day business summit in partnership with the government at Bangabandhu International Conference Center (BICC), which will be ended on Monday.

The summit, envisaged to become Bangladesh's flagship business promotion event, seeks to highlight Bangladesh's economic and market strengths, and concrete trade and investment opportunities in Bangladesh, said Dr M Masrur Reaz, Technical Adviser of the summit.

The summit creates an opportunity for business-to-business leaders' interaction with national and global business leaders, investors, policymakers, practitioners, policy and market analysts, academia, and innovators, he said.

The Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi set a meeting separately with the delegation of Saudi Arabia, China, and Bhutan.

After the meeting, the minister told reporters that Saudi Arabia, China, and Bhutan expressed interest in investment in Bangladesh.

Chinese investors have expressed interest in investing in Bangladesh more and more in energy, agro-based industry, food processing, and infrastructure development sectors. China has expressed interest in further increasing ongoing trade and investment with Bangladesh, Munshi said.

"Saudi Arabia is a friendly country that has decided to invest heavily in the energy sector of Bangladesh," he added.

In addition, Saudi Arabia is interested in investing in the agro-based industry and food sector.

Bhutan is keen to increase trade with Bangladesh. For this, it wants to increase rapid trade by eliminating various problems of sea and land ports, the commerce minister said.

Munshi said, "The development of Bangladesh is now visible and the economy is stronger than ever. Different countries are coming forward to increase trade and investment with Bangladesh."

On Sunday, 9 parallel sessions will be held in the summit center in BICC on Investment Opportunities in Key Sectors, Consumer Goods, Infrastructure, Long Term Finance, Apparel & Textile, Digital Economy, Energy Security, Japan Bangladesh Business, and Agro Business.

Business Summit: Deals signed with Saudi Arabia, China on first day

Bangladesh has signed an agreement and 3 memoranda of understanding (MoU) with Saudi Arabia and China on an inaugural day (Saturday) of Bangladesh Business Summit 2023. An agreement has been signed with a Saudi Company to set up gas pipelines through India and Bangladesh under a public-private...

www.tbsnews.net

 

[Isa Khan]

Bangladesh and Korea on Sunday signed a soft loan agreement worth $3 billion aimed at implementing new mega projects in the country.

Under the signed Letter of Understanding (LoU) and Cooperation Arrangement (C/A), Korea will provide the loan through the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) during the period 2023-2027, according to a press release of the Ministry of Finance on Monday.

The LoU was signed by Sharifa Khan, secretary of the Economic Relations Division (ERD) and Seong-wook Kim, deputy minister for international affairs at the Korean Ministry of Economy and Finance, on behalf of the respective countries.

At the same time, the cooperation arrangement was signed by Md Shahriar Kader Siddiky, additional secretary of the ERD and Tae-soo Kim, executive director of Korea Exim Bank, said the release.

The interest rate of the soft loan agreement will be 1% with a 30-year repayment period, including a 7-year grace period. The management fee would be 0.4% and contractors will be appointed through international bidding, it added.

Korea has been providing soft loans through the EDCF for the development of socio-economic, infrastructure and ICT sectors in Bangladesh since 1993.

So far, 16 projects worth $619.78 million have been completed with Korea's assistance from the EDCF and seven more worth $616.28 are currently ongoing.

Until now, the total commitment amount from the EDCF for Bangladesh is $1.31 billion, which is the second largest amount committed by Korea for its development partner countries.

Bangladesh, Korea sign $3bn soft loan deal for mega projects

Bangladesh and Korea on Sunday signed a soft loan agreement worth $3 billion aimed at implementing new mega projects in the country. Under the signed Letter of Understanding (LoU) and Cooperation Arrangement (C/A), Korea will provide the loan through the Economic Development Cooperation Fund...

www.tbsnews.net

 

[Isa Khan]

Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen has said that India and Thailand have no objection in including Bangladesh in the Trilateral Highway project.

However, Myanmar is yet to give a reaction on the matter, the foreign secretary told reporters after the third 'Foreign Office Consultation' meeting at the foreign ministry on Tuesday (14 March).

Bangladesh expressed its willingness to join the project during the meeting, Momen said, adding that both India and Thailand representatives said they do not have any problem with Bangladesh's inclusion. "But the question remains, how will Myanmar react?"

He further said, "Apart from connecting to the Trilateral Highway, air connectivity and maritime connectivity issues were also discussed in the meeting."

Mentioning that currently 35 flights per week are being operated on the Dhaka-Bangkok route, the foreign secretary said more flights will be launched if the demand increases in the future.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) is ready to be signed with Thailand to increase air connectivity, Momen said, adding that more possibilities will be created between the two countries once the agreement is implemented.

Sarun Charoensuwan, permanent secretary of Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led the delegation from the country at the Foreign Office Consultation.

"We can help each other. Bangladesh is our good friend. In the future, Bangladesh is going to graduate from LDC status. We have the potential to work together in many areas and can support each other on various aspects," Sarun said.

Stating that there was a fruitful discussion in the meeting, Foreign Secretary Momen said, "Bangladesh's current trade volume with Thailand is $1 billion. It can easily be doubled. We want to take it to $2 billion in the near future, the government is working on it."

India, Thailand agree to include Bangladesh in trilateral highway project

Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen has said India and Thailand have no objection to including Bangladesh in the India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway (IMT Highway). However, Myanmar is yet to give a reaction regarding the matter, the foreign secretary told reporters after the third "Foreign...

www.tbsnews.net

Russia has proposed exporting liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Bangladesh as the latter seeks to meet its long-term energy needs.

The proposal was made during the fourth session of the Russia-Bangladesh Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, which began in virtual mode on Monday.

"We'll talk to the energy ministry on the Russian proposal. There are challenges as Russia is facing sanctions," said a senior official of the Economic Relations Division (ERD).

He said the meeting will discuss general issues before finalising matters in bilateral discussions.

Bangladesh currently faces a shortfall in its demand for 3,500 million cubic feet of gas per day (mmcfd), with 2,200 mmcfd coming from internal sources and another 600 mmcfd from LNG imports.

While Bangladesh imports LNG from Qatar and Oman, this marks the first time that Russia has offered to export LNG to the country at the government level.

"We have not yet received any written proposal from Russia," said Zanendra Nath Sarker, chairman of Petrobangla. "Once we receive it, we will consider all aspects and make a decision.

"Apart from Russia, we have also received proposals for short-term and long-term LNG purchases from various organisations and countries. A decision on which country to buy LNG from will be made soon."

Russia has also proposed exporting gas pipelines and other equipment to Bangladesh, as well as modernising the country's Ghorashal Unit-1 and Unit-2.

Bangladesh's oldest power plants, which date back to the Pakistan period, are almost out of production, with a production capacity of 110MW.

ERD officials noted that Russia has offered to sell the necessary products to modernise Bangladesh's power project directly rather than through tenders.

The two countries also discussed banking transactions, with Russia proposing to conduct trade and financial transactions in Bangladesh by using Moscow's currency, the rouble. Progress on the Rooppur Nuclear Power Project was also discussed.

Bangladesh is working on setting up 100 economic zones by 2030, and investments have been sought in these zones. Over the three-day period, the commission meeting will also discuss skill development, agriculture, increasing bilateral trade, fisheries, railways, ICT and greater connectivity, especially people-to-people contacts.

Officials from various Bangladeshi ministries and divisions, including the Finance Division, Commerce Ministry, Power Division, Energy and Mineral Resources Division, Petrobangla, Civil Aviation and Tourism ministry, ICT Division, the Bangladesh Bank, Agriculture Ministry and Fisheries and Livestock Resources ministry, are participating in the commission meeting.

The commission was established in 2017 to oversee all economic collaborations. A yearly commission meeting has been scheduled. The first meeting was held in Moscow in 2018, followed by the second meeting in Dhaka in 2019. However, due to Covid-19 restrictions, the third meeting was conducted via video conferencing in 2021.

Russia offers LNG export to Bangladesh as solution to energy deficit

Russia has proposed exporting liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Bangladesh as the latter seeks to meet its long-term energy needs. The proposal was made during the fourth session of the Russia-Bangladesh Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, which...

www.tbsnews.net

 

[Isa Khan]

A delegation from Myanmar has arrived in Teknaf, Cox's Bazar to discuss the issue of Rohingya repatriation.

The 22-member delegation from the Myanmar Immigration Department reached Teknaf on Wednesday (15 March) and were received by a Bangladesh delegation led by Cox's Bazar Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner Mizanur Rahman.

Mizanur Rahman said that 17 delegates are staying in Teknaf for the next one week. They plan to hold talks with the Rohingyas residing in camps to discuss repatriation.

A meeting held in this regard reviewed the list of Rohingyas, taking refuge in Bangladesh, sent to Myanmar.

Verifying the authenticity of children born to the listed Rohingyas throughout their stay in the country was also discussed.

A plan for the repatriation process was in the meeting's agenda, sources at the refugee commission had said.

Nearly 12 lakh Rohingyas who fled to Bangladesh in 2017 in the face of persecution by the Myanmar army are sheltered in 33 camps of Ukhia, Teknaf and Bhasanchar.

Myanmar delegation arrives in Teknaf for talks on Rohingya repatriation

A delegation from Myanmar has arrived in Teknaf, Cox's Bazar to discuss the issue of Rohingya repatriation. The 22-member delegation from the Myanmar Immigration Department reached Teknaf on Wednesday and were received by a Bangladesh delegation led by Cox's Bazar Refugee Relief and Repatriation...

www.tbsnews.net

Bangladesh and Thailand have agreed to seriously explore the prospects of an FTA (free trade agreement) to further enhance the bilateral trade between the two countries.

Bangladesh also apprised the Thai side that a qualitative feasibility study is being undertaken by the Ministry of Commerce in this regard.

Bangladesh and Thailand agreed to hold the Joint Trade Committee (JTC) in Dhaka this year at a mutually convenient time to review the whole range of bilateral trade and investment portfolio and increase the volume and diversity of trade to its true potential.

Bangladesh requested the Thai side to ease the trade regime of Thailand in the form of removal of non-tariff barriers, duty waiver/reduction etc. for Bangladeshi products to help achieve a better balance in the bilateral trade.

Bangladesh and Thailand held the third Foreign Office Consultations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka on Tuesday.

Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen led the Bangladesh delegation, while Sarun Charoensuwan, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, led the Thai side.

Senior officials of the ministries of Foreign Affairs, Commerce, Agriculture, Industries, Civil Aviation and Tourism and Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) also attended the meeting. The meeting discussed the whole gamut of the Bangladesh-Thailand bilateral relations. The 2nd FOC was held in Bangkok last year.

Both sides appreciated the existing excellent bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment for raising the profile of bilateral ties to newer heights in the coming days.

The two sides lauded the growing pace of engagement and enthusiasm in areas of political, economic, social and cultural ties and agreed to further explore new areas of cooperation.

The meeting took stock of cooperation in the areas of trade, investment, health services, tourism, defence cooperation, consular cooperation, agriculture and agro-processing, manufacturing, connectivity, ICT, energy, cultural exchange and people to people contacts.

The two sides also exchanged views on regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest.

During the meeting, the foreign secretary expressed satisfaction that both countries marked the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties with commemorative events throughout 2022 in a befitting manner.

The permanent secretary for foreign affairs of Thailand assured that the country will continue its support to enhance collaboration and cooperation in combating transnational crimes.

By stressing the need for mutual accreditation and recognition of standards, the foreign secretary expressed hope that the draft MoU on testing and standardization of products would be finalized at the earliest.

A 15-member business delegation was accompanying the Thai permanent secretary who are taking part in various business events including the just concluded Business Summit and the business matchmaking and networking with the Bangladeshi business leaders held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Foreign Secretary Masud highly appreciated the presence of the Thai business delegation on the occasion of the 3rd FOC in Dhaka.

Thailand appreciated the high potential and lucrative areas for profitable investment in Bangladesh, both in unitary and joint venture formats. Both sides agreed to mobilize greater dynamism in the B2B institutional cooperation between trade bodies and joint chambers of the two countries.

The foreign secretary lauded Thailand's successes and experiences in the sectors of poultry, fisheries, and other agro-based industries and sought the Thai government's cooperation in agro-based industries to develop capacity through training and technology transfer.

He also suggested partnership and research related collaborations on aquaculture and marine biodiversity.

The foreign secretary appreciated the visit of Director General of South Asia and Central Asia Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand to the Cox's Bazar Rohingya Camp the next day and called for a more proactive role by the Thai government for ensuring voluntary, dignified and sustainable repatriation of Rohingya people currently sheltered in Bangladesh to their homeland in Myanmar.

Dhaka, Bangkok keen to explore FTA prospects to boost bilateral trade

Bangladesh and Thailand have agreed to seriously explore the prospects of an FTA (free trade agreement) to further enhance the bilateral trade between the two countries. Bangladesh also apprised the Thai side that a qualitative feasibility study is being undertaken by the Ministry of Commerce in...

www.tbsnews.net

 

[Isa Khan]

An event called "Bangladesh-Korea Defense Industry Cooperation Event" was held between Bangladesh and South Korea in the month of February. In that event, South Korean arms manufacturing companies presented their weapons as well as discussed about defense industry development.

 

[Isa Khan]

Mauritania has welcomed "contract farming" proposal from Bangladesh government to open arable land for Bangladeshi entrepreneurs.

The initiative to leave large arable land to private sector by April will open a potential opportunity for Bangladeshi entrepreneurs and businessmen, said Yahya Ahmed El Waghef, Mauritania's minister for agriculture.

Bangladesh's non-resident ambassador Muhammad Zulqar Nain placed the "contract farming" proposal before Yahya at a bilateral meeting during the former's recent visit to the West African country, according to a press release issued today.

Putting special emphasise on the application of state-of-the-art technology in farming, Yahya said this will pave the ways of commercial agricultural activities in lieu of collecting existing natural agricultural products.

He hoped that Bangladesh and Mauritania will work closely to achieve food security for both countries.

The minister also appreciated Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for her right leadership for overall development of Bangladesh.

At the invitation of the Mauritania's investment authority, Muhammad Zulqar Nain also visited large plain lands of Rosso and Boga across Senegal river in the southern part of the country.

There are possibilities and opportunities for farming various types of livestock and cultivating wheat, corn, paddy and watermelon in this region.

A Saudi Arabian company has been producing onion, garlic and watermelon in this region already, which are being exported to the European markets, read the press release.

Mauritania welcomes Bangladesh’s contract farming proposal

Mauritania has welcomed “contract farming” proposal from Bangladesh government to open arable land for Bangladeshi entrepreneurs..The initiative to leave large arable land to private sector by April will open a potential opportunity for Bangladeshi entrepreneurs and businessmen, said Yahya

www.thedailystar.net

 

[Isa Khan]

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said relationship between Bangladesh and France has expanded further towards the objective of strategic dimension– guided by common goals of sustainable development.

“France has always been a trusted partner of Bangladesh, and this partnership has expanded further towards the objective of strategic dimension guided by our common goals of sustainable development,” she said.

The Prime Minister said this while the newly appointed French Ambassador Marie Masdupuy called on her at her official residence, Ganabhaban.

PM’s Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim briefed reporters after the meeting.

The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction over the growing relationship – with cooperation in various fields over the last five decades, on the path set up by Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Referring to Cox’s Bazar airport, the PM told the French ambassador that the government is transforming it into an international hub for refilling and linking Asia and Europe.

While talking about Rohingya crisis, the Prime Minister said, the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals sheltered in Bangladesh have to return to their homeland as they have become a burden for the country.

The newly appointed ambassador to Bangladesh said that France is keen to promote cooperation with Bangladesh particularly in the areas of aviation, aerospace and maritime security for mutual benefits.

In this regard, Masdupuy said her country is interested to construct a second satellite for Bangladesh.

Pointing out the issue of climate change, the envoy said, France has been working on this issue including adaptation and can share their experience with Bangladesh.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister recalled her visit to France in November 2021 and her fruitful talks with President Emanuel Macron in Paris.

Sheikh Hasina also thanked the French President for inviting her to attend the Climate Summit, to be held in Paris on June 22-23.

Prime Minister’s Principal Secretary M Tofazzel Hossain Miah was present at the meeting.

France keen on cooperation with Bangladesh in aviation, maritime security: Envoy tells PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said relationship between Bangladesh and France has expanded further towards the objective of strategic dimension– guided by common goals of sustainable development. “France has always been a

unb.com.bd

 

[PutinBro]

Bangladesh on Monday formally announced its ‘Indo-Pacific Outlook', noting that it considers stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific to be a “crucial factor” in realizing the country's Vision 2041.

Being a littoral state of the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh aims to be a modern, knowledge-based, developed country by 2041.The Indo-Pacific area's collective share in global GDP, preponderance in international trade, enhanced climate action and growing technological dynamism can be key determinants for ensuring Bangladesh's long-term resilience and prosperity.

"Bangladesh, therefore, envisions a free, open, peaceful, secure, and inclusive Indo-Pacific for the shared prosperity for all," the outlook reads.

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam and Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Seheli Sabrin were present at the briefing where the outlook was announced in addition to briefing the media on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's upcoming tri-nation visits.

Guiding Principles:​

Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's foreign policy dictum ‘Friendship towards all, malice toward none.'

Constitutional mandate on the conduct of international relations based on the principles of respect for national sovereignty and equality, political independence, non-interference in internal affairs, peaceful settlement of international disputes, as well as respect for international law and the principles enunciated in the United Nations Charter; and striving for renunciation of the use of force in international relations and for general and complete disarmament.

Adherence to the relevant UN treaties and international conventions, as applicable, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Constructive regional and international cooperation for sustainable development, international peace and security, humanitarian action, and fundamental rights and freedoms.

Objectives:​

Consistent with the above-mentioned principles, the following objectives will guide Bangladesh's Indo-Pacific outlook and engagements:

*Strengthen mutual trust and respect, forge partnerships and cooperation, and promote dialogue and understanding with the aim of ensuring peace, prosperity, security and stability for all in the Indo-Pacific.

*Strengthen existing mechanisms on maritime safety and security in the Indo-Pacific, including response to emergencies at sea and conduct of search & rescue, and uphold the exercise of freedom of navigation & over-flight, in accordance with international law and relevant international conventions, including UNCLOS, 1982.

*Maintain meaningful and value-driven contribution to international non-proliferation, peacekeeping, peacebuilding and counter-terrorism efforts, including with partners in the Indo-Pacific.

*Support regional and international efforts towards combating transnational organized crimes in the Indo-Pacific through both normative and practical actions.

*Expand global lead on the flagship agenda of a ‘culture of peace', enhance focus on the ‘women, peace and security' agenda, promote interfaith harmony and work towards building peaceful, just and inclusive societies in the Indo-Pacific.

*Promote open, transparent, rules-based multilateral systems that enable equitable and sustainable development in the Indo-Pacific and beyond through inclusive economic growth, right to development and shared prosperity for all.

*Enhance physical, institutional, energy, digital and human connectivity, facilitate movement of goods, services, capital, and people in a systematic manner, and promote technology transfer, access to innovations and responsible behavior in open and secure cyberspace and outer space.

*Leverage the domestic agriculture, manufacturing and services sectors towards building resilient regional and global value chains to better manage future crisis and disruptions and to promote unimpeded and free flow of commerce in the Indo-Pacific.

*Promote conservation, sustainable use and management of oceans, seas, and marine resources in the Indo-Pacific in pursuance of SDG-14 and other relevant internationally agreed development commitments.

*Engage proactively in promoting food security, water solidarity, and disaster risk reduction in the Indo-Pacific, including through disseminating home-grown good practices.

*Continue tangible work towards addressing the challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, marine pollution, and other significant and harmful impacts on the environment in line with relevant international conventions and commitments.

*Foster cooperation among Indo-Pacific countries to ensure energy security for all, including through investment and technology transfer on renewable energy.

*Work towards developing coordinated response to future pandemics and ensuring health security, including through access for all to global public goods like vaccines, diagnostics and other treatments.

*Collaboration with sub-regional partners and relevant organizations towards bolstering regional cooperation and enhancing mutually beneficial complementarities.

*Strengthen collaboration and cooperation in science, technology, research and innovation for shared benefits of all, in keeping with the vision of 'Smart Bangladesh'.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&sou...gQFnoECCAQAQ&usg=AOvVaw2Qxhf1lF9_7wFt6Frsjy8O

 

[PutinBro]

How deep military cooperation will be with USA & allies is going to depend on how do we actually define 'security'.

 

[Isa Khan]

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has offered Bhutan to build an economic zone in Bangladesh for mutual benefits as Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema had a meeting with her.

"We're establishing economic zones in Bangladesh. You can build an economic zone in our country which will be familiar with the Bhutan Economic Zone," Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen quoted her as saying in a news briefing after their meeting on Saturday (local time).

Earlier, PM Hasina and her younger sister Sheikh Rehana received the Bhutanese King and Queen upon their arrival at Sheikh Hasina's Palace of Residence, The Claridge Hotel as the meeting was held at its bilateral meeting room.

The Bangladesh premier said they have already provided economic zones in Bangladesh to India, Japan and South Korea.

"If you want, we can give you an economic zone in Kurigram," she said.

Sheikh Hasina made the offer when the Bhutanese King said they wanted to build an administrative economic zone in his country keeping the environment unharmed.

The Bangladesh foreign minister said Bhutan doesn't want to endanger their country environmentally as their country is a happy one.

The prime minister said that Bangladesh has been developing communication with neighbours through all the ways that include railways.

"Bangladesh is a connectivity hub. Bhutan can use Bangladesh's two ports and the Syedpur International Airport as we make those open for this purpose," she said.

The Bhutanese King and Queen highly praised the economic advancement of Bangladesh under the dynamic leadership of Sheikh Hasina.

Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck has expressed his desire to get direct transit with Bangladesh through India.

The Bangladesh premier has welcomed Bhutan's eagerness, saying, "If necessary, we will talk to India over the matter."

The Bhutanese King said his country's prime minister and foreign minister have a special attachment with Bangladesh as both of them studied in Bangladesh.

He said both the premier and foreign minister of Bhutan have wanted to visit Bangladesh privately.

To this end, Sheikh Hasina said, "My door is open for your people."

During the 50 minutes meeting, they also discussed various family affairs and the Bhutanese King and Queen considered the prime minister as their maternal aunt, the Bangladesh foreign minister said.

PM's Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman Fazlur Rahman, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam, PM's Principal Secretary Md Tofazzel Hossain Miah, Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen, PM's Speechwriter M Nazrul Islam and Bangladesh High Commissioner to the UK Saida Muna Tasneem, among others, were present at the meeting.

PM offers economic zone to Bhutan for mutual benefits

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has offered Bhutan to build an economic zone in Bangladesh for mutual benefits as Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema had a meeting with her. "We're establishing economic zones in Bangladesh.

www.tbsnews.net

 

[Isa Khan]

The military contingent of the armed forces has returned home after attending the coronation ceremony of Charles III of the United Kingdom.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the military contingent returned to the country on Monday (May 8). On April 27, the contingent went to the UK to attend the King’s coronation ceremony.

According to ISPR, a military contingent of 10 members of the armed forces consisting of the Bangladesh Army, Navy and Air Force was sent at the invitation of the UK government to celebrate the coronation of the King of the United Kingdom. On May 6, King Charles III was officially crowned in a magnificent ceremony at Westminster Abbey, London. Approximately 2,200 invited guests including about 100 heads of state and government of the world were present at this coronation ceremony. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina attended the event as an invited guest. Around 400 members of the armed forces from 40 countries participated in the parade in addition to the UK Armed Forces to commemorate the historic moment.

A smart contingent of Bangladesh Armed Forces consisting of Army, Navy and Air Force personnel led by Bangladesh Army Lt. Col. Sadat Mohammad Hasan participated in the coronation parade. Everyone is hopeful that through this participation, the mutual relations between Bangladesh and the United Kingdom will be more far-reaching and cordial.

https://bangladesh.postsen.com/world/amp/163359

 

[Isa Khan]

Egypt Air, the state-owned airline of Egypt, has begun its regular flight operations to and from Bangladesh from Sunday.

The Cairo-Dhaka flight landed at Dhaka airport at 6:35pm and the flight left Dhaka for Cairo at 9:17 pm.

"We will operate flights to and from Dhaka twice a week on Sundays and Wednesdays with brand-new Boeing 787-9 aircraft," executive director and chief operating officer of Egypt Air Bangladesh office Farhad Hossain told The Business Standard.

He said commencing the flights on this route would boost tourism, trade, and business between the two countries.

"Now, Egypt Air will become the sole operator of nonstop flights between Egypt and Bangladesh in the aviation history of Bangladesh," he added.

Bangladeshis can now travel to 64 cities including the Middle East, Europe, Africa, Asia, and American cities via Cairo, officials of the airline said at an event in Dhaka on Saturday.

At an event, Civil Aviation and Tourism State Minister Mahbub Ali said, "The benefit of the initiatives we have taken to make Bangladesh an aviation hub is reflected now. More airlines like Egypt Air are showing their interest to operate flights.

With the beginning of the EgyptAir flights, Bangladesh's relationship with Egypt will further be strengthened, he added.

People concerned said Bangladeshis travel to Egypt for business, work, and education purposes.

They now can go directly to Egypt from Bangladesh. Besides, the chance for Bangladeshis will increase to return home from the Middle East, Europe, Africa, Asia, and American countries.

Egypt Air operates flights to over 80 destinations, including the Middle East, Europe, Africa, Asia, and the United States, with a fleet of 69 modern aircraft.

Egypt Air starts Dhaka-Cairo direct flight

The airline will operate flights to and from Dhaka on Sundays and Wednesdays

www.tbsnews.net

 

[Isa Khan]

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen has said foreign ambassadors of at least six countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, India, and Saudi Arabia, will no longer get additional security escort services they used to receive in Bangladesh.

"We have decided not to provide additional security escort services to foreign ambassadors of any country. But if any country feels it is necessary, they can hire the services," the minister told The Business Standard on Monday (15 May).

"The service used to be provided to 5-6 countries. Now, many countries have been asking for it. But we will not give it to anyone, because it is discriminatory. No one gives such benefits to our ambassadors abroad," he added.

Earlier, Momen said during an interview with Independent Television, "There is no such unrest in our country that you will be shot dead on the streets. In our country, we give the security services to a few people. Now everyone wants it. That's why we have decided to withdraw it."

He said, "I need a lot of security forces now. I have to look after my Padma Bridge, Metro rail. Some ambassadors have even expressed their admiration for it. They said they don't like the police being with them when they go somewhere."

Additional security no longer needed for foreign diplomats: Momen

Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has observed that additional security for some foreign diplomats is 'discriminatory, also no longer required, as the law and order situation in Bangladesh is under control. He has said that the ambassadors of at least six countries, including the United States...

www.tbsnews.net