UAE Foreign Minister Proposes Strategic Partnership with Bangladesh
Last Updated on March 9, 2024 10:54 am
UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan has expressed a keen interest in elevating the diplomatic ties between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bangladesh to a strategic partnership. The announcement came during a bilateral meeting held today at the royal palace in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi.
Sheikh Abdullah proposed the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the activation of the Joint Business Council (JBC) to strengthen economic collaboration between the two nations. This move is aimed at fostering closer ties and unlocking new opportunities for mutual growth.
Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud, who led the delegation, presented an invitation letter from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to the UAE president. The letter extended an invitation to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, emphasizing the historical significance of their ties.
During the meeting, the ministers emphasized the importance of exploring new avenues of cooperation, particularly in areas such as energy security, food security, environment, climate change, renewable energy, and people-to-people communication. The discussion also focused on the immense potential for bilateral trade and investment.
Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud showcased investment opportunities for the UAE government and businessmen, highlighting the development of the Matarbari Exclusive Economic Zone and infrastructure projects in Rangunia.
Addressing regional concerns, the ministers discussed Rohingya repatriation and efforts to resolve the Gaza conflict. Sheikh Abdullah responded positively by announcing plans to simplify the visa process for various professionals from Bangladesh, including graduate nurses, caregivers, healthcare technicians, agriculturists, and farmers.
Efforts to streamline the transfer of work permits between employers were also on the agenda, reflecting the commitment to enhancing the ease of doing business and facilitating the movement of skilled professionals.
The meeting, attended by the Bangladesh Ambassador to the UAE Md Abu Zafar and Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Md Shafiqur Rahman, marks a significant step towards forging a stronger and more collaborative relationship between the UAE and Bangladesh. The proposed strategic partnership holds the promise of fostering economic growth, regional stability, and enhanced cooperation in various sectors.