Bangladesh seeks deeper ties with ASEAN for mutual prosperity
Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid has reaffirmed Bangladesh's commitment to strengthening its historic, cultural and economic partnership with ASEAN member states for mutual benefit.
He made the remarks as chief guest at a reception organised by the ASEAN Dhaka Committee at the Renaissance Dhaka Gulshan Hotel to mark the 59th ASEAN Day, according to a press release.
"Bangladesh shares longstanding ties with ASEAN member states rooted in history, culture and mutual trust," the minister said.
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"These bonds have been further strengthened through land and maritime connectivity, strong people-to-people contacts, and expanding trade relations."
Highlighting the diplomatic priorities of the current administration, Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid said the government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, attached the highest importance to its relations with all 11 ASEAN member states.
He noted that the prime minister had chosen Malaysia for his first official foreign visit and expressed optimism that the trip would significantly strengthen bilateral and regional cooperation.
The minister said Bangladesh had formally applied to become a sectoral dialogue partner of ASEAN as part of efforts to institutionalise and sustain the partnership.
Regarding sectoral cooperation, he cited the ongoing $1 million Bangladesh-ASEAN Cooperation Project on Fisheries and Aquaculture, which is being implemented by his ministry.
Further joint initiatives in tourism, information and communications technology, and culture are also in the pipeline, he added.
"ASEAN stands as one of the world's most successful regional blocs. Formalising a closer association with the ASEAN family will make our relationship far more meaningful and multifaceted," the minister said.
He sought the support of ASEAN envoys attending the reception for Bangladesh's bid to secure sectoral dialogue partner status.
ASEAN Dhaka Committee Chair and Malaysian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Mohammad Shuhada Othman, Philippine Ambassador Neena Padilla Cinglet and other ASEAN heads of mission attended the event.
Senior government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and civil society representatives were also present.
Guests were served traditional Bangladeshi delicacies, including biryani prepared with indigenous Kalijira rice and dishes featuring Black Bengal Goat, a geographical indication product, highlighting the country's agricultural and culinary heritage.
