Dhaka: Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Bangladesh, Michael Miller, emphasized that the EU stands as Bangladesh’s most reliable and largest commercial partner, as well as a vital political ally for the newly elected government. “We look forward to launching a new chapter and intensification in the EU-Bangladesh relations,” he stated after meetings with Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman and State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shama Obaed, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Ambassador Miller highlighted the EU’s position as Bangladesh’s largest commercial partner, biggest investor, and significant provider of assistance. He also mentioned that they are close to finalizing the Partnership Cooperation Agreement (PCA) with Bangladesh and hope to sign it in the near future. The Ambassador, accompanied by a delegation of EU Member State ambassadors, discussed a wide range of issues including trade, development, humanitarian concerns, and migration, aiming to explore the full potential of EU-Bangladesh relations.
Ambassador Miller expressed optimism about the new government continuing reforms initiated by the previous interim government, particularly in judicial and commercial sectors, and migration management. He reiterated the importance of respecting fundamental freedoms in the relationship between the EU and Bangladesh.
The EU delegation, which included ambassadors from Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Sweden, congratulated Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s significant victory in the parliamentary election. They also commended the Foreign Minister on his new role and expressed satisfaction with the evolution of Bangladesh-EU relations into a multifaceted partnership.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to maximizing the longstanding and mutually beneficial partnership. The ambassadors praised Bangladesh’s democratic transition and pledged continued support for constitutional, judicial, and labor reforms. Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur acknowledged the EU’s Election Observation Mission for the February 2026 national election and reiterated Bangladesh’s dedication to democratic consolidation and good governance.
The discussions also included potential negotiations for a comprehensive Bangladesh-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and addressed mutual interests such as regional and global developments, climate change, maritime economy, and employment generation. Earlier, the ambassadors congratulated State Minister Shama Obaed on her appointment, and she reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to enhancing its relationship with the EU and its Member States in areas of shared priority.