Dhaka: Bangladesh and the European Union (EU) have taken a significant step towards enhancing their economic ties by discussing early progression towards formal negotiations on a Bangladesh-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The talks aimed at strengthening long-term economic relations were held on Wednesday.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the discussions took place during a courtesy call by Michael Miller, the Ambassador of the European Union Delegation to Bangladesh, on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir at the ministry. Ambassador Miller congratulated the State Minister on his new role and expressed the EU's commitment to deepening cooperation in trade and investment with Bangladesh.
During the meeting, both parties expressed satisfaction with the longstanding and mutually beneficial partnership between Bangladesh and the EU. They reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening their multifaceted engagement, which includes migration management, the aviation sector, and sustainable development.
The State Minister conveyed Bangladesh's appreciation for the EU's reliable partnership and reiterated Bangladesh's commitment to multilateralism, democratic values, and a rules-based international order. Additionally, he acknowledged the EU's constructive role in Bangladesh's democratic transition, including through the EU Election Observation Mission and its support for ongoing reforms.
Both sides also discussed the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), expressing readiness to engage on various issues of mutual interest on the sidelines of the event. The State Minister specifically appreciated the EU's ongoing humanitarian support for the Rohingyas in Bangladesh, and both parties agreed to keep the Rohingya issue prominent on the international agenda during the UNGA discussions.
In conclusion, both Bangladesh and the EU reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation on bilateral, regional, and global issues of mutual interest.