Dhaka:Bangladesh and Algeria have reaffirmed their dedication to bolstering bilateral relations, particularly in energy, trade, investment, and industrial cooperation. This commitment follows their longstanding friendship and a recently signed energy cooperation agreement.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the commitment was articulated at a reception hosted by Algerian Ambassador to Bangladesh, Dr. Abdelouahab Saidani, at Le Meridien Dhaka. The event marked the 72nd anniversary of Algeria's Liberation Revolution and was attended by Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood, alongside ambassadors, high commissioners, diplomats, senior government officials, representatives of international organizations, and members of the Algerian community.
During the reception, the energy minister emphasized the significance of Bangladesh-Algeria cooperation in the energy sector, especially in oil and gas exploration, technology transfer, and capacity building. He highlighted the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on energy cooperation as a historic milestone in the bilateral relations between the two nations. This agreement was signed during a visit by a high-level Bangladeshi ministerial delegation to Algeria from October 20 to 22.
Minister Mahmood expressed gratitude to the Algerian government for its hospitality and cooperation during the visit, noting that the agreement opened new avenues for expanding bilateral engagement in the energy sector. He stressed the potential for increased bilateral trade and investment, identifying sectors such as textiles, industrial products, food processing, ceramics, and light engineering as promising areas for Algerian investors in Bangladesh. He also encouraged Bangladeshi entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in Algeria, citing its strategic location and economic potential.
Ambassador Saidani reaffirmed Algeria's commitment to enhancing its friendship with Bangladesh through economic, commercial, and strategic cooperation. He recalled Algeria's recognition of Bangladesh's independence in December 1971 as a foundation of their enduring relationship. The ambassador pointed out potential areas for cooperation, including oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, textiles, leather, healthcare, and shipbuilding.
Both nations expressed optimism that recent diplomatic engagements and agreements would transform their longstanding friendship into practical cooperation in energy, trade, investment, and industrial development. The reception concluded with renewed expressions of solidarity and friendship between Bangladesh and Algeria.