KL extends support for Dhaka's aspiration to join RCEP, recognises its strategic role in region

Malaysia today (22 June) expressed its support for Bangladesh's aspiration to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), recognising its growing economic significance and strategic role in the region, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Both leaders - Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim- noted that Bangladesh's future participation would strengthen regional economic integration, trade, investment, and supply chains.

The Bangladeshi side expressed its appreciation for Malaysia's support and reaffirmed its commitment to undertaking the necessary measures towards accession to the agreement, according to a joint statement shared by the Ministry.

The leaders exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East and reiterated their support for a just and lasting peace for the Palestinian people and expressed support for continued dialogue and diplomatic efforts towards a durable and comprehensive peace in the region.

They emphasised the importance of joint efforts in addressing traditional and non-traditional security challenges such as climate change, food security, human trafficking and transnational crime.

Both leaders emphasised the need to address these challenges in a holistic manner.

The two leaders also acknowledged the importance of coordinated actions within international organisations such as the United Nations (UN) and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

They also committed to jointly supporting initiatives to strengthen the world order, justice, and compliance with international law.

Both leaders expressed concerns over the prolonged Rohingya crisis, said the joint statement.

Malaysia commended Bangladesh's humanitarian endeavour in hosting the forcibly displaced Rohingyas and reaffirmed its solidarity with Bangladesh.

Malaysia reiterated its commitment to support efforts aimed at achieving a lasting resolution of the crisis which lies in the safe, dignified, and sustainable repatriation of the displaced Rohingyas to Myanmar.

Bangladesh expressed appreciation for Malaysia's continued support and principled advocacy on the Rohingya issue at the bilateral, regional, and international platforms, including within ASEAN, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the United Nations, and other multilateral forums.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman reiterated Bangladesh's strong desire to formalise its engagement with ASEAN by pursuing ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner status.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim welcomed Bangladesh's interest and expressed Malaysia's readiness to constructively support Dhaka's aspirations within the ASEAN framework.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman expressed deep appreciation and sincere gratitude to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and the Government of Malaysia for the

warm welcome and gracious hospitality extended to him and his delegation during the visit.