Dhaka:Bangladesh and Lithuania engaged in discussions today regarding deeper bilateral engagement during Lithuania's upcoming Presidency of the European Union, scheduled from January to June 2027, focusing on trade, technology, investment, and mobility.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting took place between Bangladesh's State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir and Lithuania's Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Vidmantas Verbickas at the foreign ministry. They explored how Lithuania's EU presidency could create opportunities to expand cooperation and strengthen ties with the European Union.
The state minister emphasized the importance of exploring untapped potential in bilateral relations and sought to expand cooperation in trade and investment. Kobir also urged Lithuania to import more Bangladeshi products such as ready-made garments, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and leather goods, highlighting investment opportunities in Bangladesh and inviting Lithuanian investors to explore potential sectors.
Both sides emphasized expanding cooperation in areas such as information technology, e-registration, e-governance, financial technology, cybersecurity, e-transportation, digitization of transport systems, artificial intelligence, and high-tech medical devices. Verbickas highlighted Lithuania's capabilities in these areas and expressed interest in strengthening cooperation with Bangladesh.
Additionally, discussions included employment opportunities, human mobility, migration, and visa facilitation for Bangladeshi students, businesspeople, investors, and tourists. Kobir also raised the issue of Rohingya repatriation, seeking Lithuania's support for a sustainable solution.
The Lithuanian vice-minister congratulated Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman on his presidency of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly and expressed optimism that relations between Bangladesh and Lithuania would gain momentum during their respective presidencies.
Kobir highlighted the significance of the EU-Bangladesh Business Forum and the importance of compliance with existing business frameworks. He also stressed the potential benefits of leveraging Lithuania's regional connectivity in the Baltic region and beyond to unlock opportunities and generate mutual economic benefits.
Both sides expressed a commitment to maintaining sustained engagement to deepen bilateral ties and broaden cooperation in regional and international forums.