Antalya:Bangladesh-Turkiye relations have reached a new strategic height through the bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir said here.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting, held at the Max Royal Hotel in Antalya, discussed expanding cooperation in various sectors, including trade and investment, energy, aviation, and the defense industry. Both leaders expressed interest in exploring the possibility of building a defense industry in Bangladesh and joint investments in the sector.
Humaiun Kobir stated that the meeting took place in a warm and fraternal atmosphere, with President Erdogan referring to Prime Minister Rahman as 'my valuable friend and brother.' Discussions also touched on increasing bilateral trade and investment, as well as cooperation in energy, aviation, and defense.
The state minister mentioned that no agreements or memoranda of understanding (MoU) have been signed yet, as discussions remain at the preliminary exploration stage. Energy discussions covered deep-sea mineral and energy exploration, renewable energy, and utilizing Turkiye's experience in these areas.
The leaders also addressed the Rohingya crisis, focusing on the safe and sustainable repatriation of the Rohingyas and further advancing joint efforts following the ICJ hearing. Additionally, Bangladesh aims to play a leading role in tackling climate change and climate finance.
The meeting reflects Turkiye's special interest in Bangladesh, with President Erdogan holding bilateral meetings with only a few leaders attending COP31. Prime Minister Rahman invited President Erdogan and his wife to visit Bangladesh, while also planning meetings with other international leaders and the UK foreign secretary.