Sanaa:State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has extended an invitation to Lithuanian investors to explore investment opportunities in Bangladesh's agro-processing, renewable energy, information technology, cybersecurity, and waste management sectors. This invitation was made during her meeting with Lithuanian Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Vidmantas Verbickas.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting took place at Shama's office, where she emphasized Bangladesh's potential for investment and encouraged Lithuanian businesses to explore emerging sectors for mutually beneficial partnerships. She also called for a diversification of bilateral trade and urged Lithuania to increase imports of Bangladeshi products such as pharmaceuticals, biodegradable jute goods, leather products, agro-products, furniture, and plastic goods.
Shama Obaed Islam highlighted the establishment of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Lithuania in 1992 and expressed the need to broaden these ties. She mentioned that the government, under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is pursuing a "Bangladesh First" foreign policy to further national interests through international engagement.
The discussions between the two sides also covered cooperation in education, workforce opportunities, human mobility, visa facilitation, women's empowerment, and cultural exchanges. They exchanged views on strengthening participation in regional and international organizations and enhancing cooperation in information technology.
Further discussions included potential collaboration on environmental and climate issues, energy and food security, and the importance of high-level visits and exchanges between business delegations. Both sides stressed the value of youth and student exchanges, cultural and sports team visits, tourism cooperation, and fostering people-to-people connections. They agreed that stronger connectivity and interaction could unlock untapped potential in Bangladesh-Lithuania relations.