Malaysian High Commissioner Champions Bangladesh’s Bid for ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partnership
Last Updated on March 13, 2024 4:07 am
Dhaka, March 13, 2024 – In a significant diplomatic move, the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Bangladesh, Haznah Md Hashim, reaffirmed Malaysia’s staunch support for Bangladesh’s pursuit of becoming a “Sectoral Dialogue Partner of ASEAN.” This declaration came during a meeting between the high commissioner and Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday.
The meeting, characterized by a cordial atmosphere, delved into matters of shared interest and bilateral collaboration. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the existing strong relations between Bangladesh and Malaysia, and discussions centered around fortifying these ties across various sectors. Key areas of focus included human resources collaboration, defense cooperation, the initiation of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, augmentation of bilateral trade, and investment opportunities in Special Economic Zones.
The Malaysian envoy’s vocal backing for Bangladesh’s bid to attain Sectoral Dialogue Partnership within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) reflects a shared vision for enhanced regional cooperation. This move could potentially open up new avenues for collaboration and economic integration between Bangladesh and the ASEAN member states.
Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud utilized the opportunity to seek Malaysia’s proactive engagement, both bilaterally and within ASEAN, in facilitating the sustainable repatriation of Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals to their home country. This underscores the shared commitment of both nations to addressing humanitarian concerns and contributing to regional stability.
The commitment to deepening bilateral ties was reiterated by both dignitaries, emphasizing their mutual desire to foster greater cooperation for the benefit of Bangladesh and Malaysia. As Bangladesh actively seeks increased integration and collaboration in the ASEAN region, Malaysia’s support adds momentum to the country’s diplomatic efforts on the international stage.