Bangladesh High Commissioner, PM hold talks on boosting bilateral ties

Bangladesh High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, M. Riaz Hamidullah, paid a courtesy call on Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at the prime minister’s house in Colombo on 27 February. 

During the meeting, the Bangladesh High Commissioner conveyed the greetings of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to Prime Minister Wickremesinghe. The High Commissioner underscored the possibilities that existed for both countries, principally focusing on the economic and trade fronts. 

He informed the Prime Minister that in areas like merchandised trade, finance, investment, shipping, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, etc. considerable potential could be tapped. 

On a proposed FTA, the High Commissioner requested the early initiation of talks to facilitate greater economic engagements, including further trade liberalisation to benefit both countries. In that context, he referred to the presence of the growing number of Sri Lankan enterprises and nationals in Bangladesh that were gainfully employed in numerous service sectors. Highlighting the immense potential of maritime connectivity in the Bay of Bengal region, the High Commissioner called for more engagement in shipping and deep sea fishing.

The Prime Minister acknowledged that bilateral relations should focus on further expansion of economic and trade cooperation. He said that following the conclusion of the ongoing trade negotiations with India, China and Singapore, discussions would commence with Bangladesh on a priority basis. He further stated that there would more collaboration to effectively reap the advantages in the Bay of Bengal region and convert the bay into a “growth zone”. 

Referring to an upcoming VVIP visit to Bangladesh, both meeting parties recognised the importance of high-level exchanges to identify more areas of cooperation for mutual benefit. The Prime Minister also expressed hope to visit Bangladesh at a convenient time in the future.