Bangladesh, Myanmar agree to boost trade, connectivity and Rohingya repatriation efforts
During the meeting, both sides discussed increasing trade in agricultural and fisheries products, rice, pharmaceuticals and frozen foods.
Bangladesh and Myanmar have agreed to strengthen bilateral trade, improve connectivity and work towards creating conditions conducive to the repatriation of Rohingya refugees, officials said following a meeting between Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muqtadir and Myanmar Ambassador Kyaw Soe Moe today (2 August).
The meeting was held at the Ministry of Commerce, where the two sides discussed expanding import-export opportunities, improving maritime connectivity, importing liquefied natural gas (LNG), and enhancing investment cooperation.
The commerce minister said Bangladesh remains committed to strengthening relations with neighbouring countries based on mutual respect, trust and economic cooperation.
"Given the geographical proximity and existing potential, trade between the two countries can be increased further," he said.
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He added that trade, transport, investment and border connectivity issues involving other ministries would be reviewed through inter-ministerial coordination.
The Myanmar ambassador expressed interest in expanding trade ties and reopening the long-suspended border trade to benefit businesses and people on both sides. He suggested that border trade could initially resume on a limited or temporary basis if necessary.
During the meeting, both sides discussed increasing trade in agricultural and fisheries products, rice, pharmaceuticals and frozen foods. They also stressed the need to strengthen business-to-business (B2B) engagement and direct communication between business communities.
The repatriation of forcibly displaced Rohingya people sheltered in Bangladesh was also discussed at the meeting.
The Myanmar ambassador said the verification process of the repatriation lists provided by Bangladesh is ongoing. He added that necessary steps would be taken to advance the process once security conditions and the situation on the ground become favourable.
Bangladesh called for creating a safe environment for the early, voluntary, sustainable and dignified return of the Rohingya community, while stressing the need for effective and visible progress on the issue.
The two countries also agreed to hold regular institutional discussions and joint committee meetings. A proposal to host the next joint meeting in Bangladesh was discussed during the talks.
Both sides placed importance on establishing direct maritime and shipping connectivity and expediting the finalisation of a related agreement. They said improved connectivity would reduce transportation costs and time while helping increase bilateral trade.
Commerce Ministry Secretary Md Ataur Rahman Khan, Additional Secretary (FTA) Ayesha Akter, and Myanmar Embassy Counsellor Myat Lwin were present at the meeting.
