Dhaka:Bangladesh has requested the support of the Netherlands to extend its period as a Least Developed Country (LDC) and to advance negotiations for a Bangladesh-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA), amidst increasing global economic challenges.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir made this request during a meeting with Dutch Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation Sjoerd Sjoerdsma at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Dutch Ambassador to Bangladesh Joris van Bommel was also present at the meeting.
Minister Kobir emphasized the impact of recent global crises on Bangladesh's economy and stressed the importance of international collaboration for a smooth transition from LDC status. He called for Dutch support in extending the LDC graduation period and in progressing towards a Bangladesh-EU FTA.
During the meeting, both nations expressed a commitment to bolstering bilateral economic cooperation through increased trade, investment, and technological partnerships. They identified shipbuilding, maritime infrastructure, textiles, semiconductors, water management, and agricultural supply chains, including cold-chain development, as priority areas for collaboration.
The Dutch minister noted the upcoming visit of a maritime trade mission and expressed interest in strengthening the strategic partnership between Bangladesh and the Netherlands over the next 50 years. He also highlighted potential visits focusing on textiles and water-related issues.
Kobir underscored opportunities for cooperation in shipbuilding and semiconductors and sought continued Dutch support for Bangladesh's apparel industry. The meeting reviewed ongoing cooperation in water management, emphasizing technical collaboration in delta management, canal excavation, and climate adaptation.
The discussion also covered the Rohingya crisis, highlighting the need for sustained international engagement towards a lasting solution. The state minister reiterated Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's focus on water management and quality governance, particularly in addressing climate change challenges.
Both sides exchanged views on migration, United Nations reforms, and enhancing cooperation in multilateral forums, including Bangladesh's presidency of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly.