Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud on Thursday sought Australia’s support in keeping the Rohingya issue alive globally with a view to the ultimate repatriation of the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals sheltered in Bangladesh.
The foreign minister also discussed sustainable and renewable energy production, technology transfer and free and open Indo-Pacific region. Acting High Commissioner of Australia Nardia Simpson met the foreign minister at his office. Both sides exchanged greetings and discussed multiple issues.
She mentioned the existing Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) between Bangladesh and Australia and opportunities of large Australian companies to invest in Bangladesh under this framework.
The envoy informed that the next joint working group meeting under TIFA is scheduled to take place in Canberra in April-May this year, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The minister highlighted increasing bilateral trade relations between Bangladesh and Australia.
He mentioned that each year Bangladesh imports cotton worth $4 billion and the country may import good quality cotton from Australia. Bangladesh is developing 100 Special Economic Zones, which may be a good destination for Australian investment.
Hasan said a large number of people from Bangladesh, especially from Chattogram are now living in Australia and are contributing to the economy of the both countries.
He proposed that a business delegation from Australia may visit Bangladesh, which may include the investors from the IT, energy, leather, small industry and agriculture sectors.
As Bangladesh imports about 6 million tonnes of wheat every year, Australia may consider exporting this item to Bangladesh, said the minister. Acting High Commissioner Nardia thanked the foreign minister for sharing all his ideas to promote bilateral ties.
She described the employment opportunities in Australia and proposed exchange of skilled manpower between both countries. The envoy informed that Bangladesh can import Australian good quality wool to diversify its export basket in the RMG sector.
She also appreciated the good quality mangoes produced in Bangladesh and wants export of mangoes to Australia.
Nardia acknowledged the generosity of the Bangladesh government in supporting the Rohingya refugees. She reiterated Australia’s commitment to continue the humanitarian assistance for the Rohingyas and support Bangladesh in their repatriation effort.
