Dhaka: A discussion titled “Meet the Ambassador: Talking Diplomacy for Cooperation” was held at Jahangirnagar University (JU) focusing on strengthening academic, diplomatic, and development cooperation between Bangladesh and Germany.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the programme took place at the university’s Senate Hall this morning, jointly organised by the Center for Governance Studies (CGS) and Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES), with German Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr Rdiger Lotz attending as the chief guest.
Addressing the programme, German Ambassador Dr Rdiger Lotz expressed his inspiration to engage in meaningful discussions with JU students, describing the younger generation, particularly Gen-Z, as the real architects of Bangladesh’s future. He referred to the July-August student-public uprising, noting that the aspirations for reform reflected through the movement are crucial for building a stable and prosperous Bangladesh.
The ambassador highlighted Germany’s position as one of Bangladesh’s closest economic partners and expressed optimism that with appropriate guidance and educational advancement, Bangladesh has the potential to emerge among the world’s top 20 economies within the next two decades. He added that bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Germany are evolving beyond aid dependency towards a strategic partnership, especially in areas such as trade diversification, higher education, and technical skills development.
Speaking at the event, JU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan described Germany as an important partner of Bangladesh and a symbol of knowledge, discipline, and innovation for the country’s younger generation. He emphasized the need for proper guidance for the talented and energetic youth to meet public aspirations and contribute to national rebuilding following the recent student-public uprising.
The vice-chancellor stated the university’s intention to make its education system more practical and strengthen links among research, academia, and industry. He added that Germany’s extensive experience in these sectors could play a vital role. He also expressed hope that the ambassador’s visit would open new horizons for educational and research collaboration between Jahangirnagar University and German universities and research institutions.
CGS Chairman Zillur Rahman, FES Resident Representative Dr Felix Gerdes, and teachers and students from different universities were also present at the programme.