High-Level Talks Strengthen Thai-Bangladeshi Relations

In a significant development on Friday, Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina met with Thai counterpart Srettha Thavisin at the Government House to discuss strengthening healthcare and trade ties.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was given a red carpet welcome when she arrived at the Thai Prime Minister’s office on Friday morning. Photo: PID.

Deepening Healthcare Cooperation

During the bilateral summit, Prime Minister Hasina urged Thailand to consider investment in Bangladesh’s burgeoning healthcare sector, which includes hospitals and high-tech parks. She highlighted the potential for bilateral training programs and capability enhancement for Bangladeshi medical professionals. This discussion took place in the backdrop of a joint press conference where both leaders underscored their commitment to deepening mutual cooperation.

Ceremonial Welcome and Bilateral Agreements

The meeting commenced with a ceremonial welcome for Sheikh Hasina, who received a guard of honor and a red carpet reception. The talks culminated in the signing of five key documents, including an agreement, three memorandums of understanding, and a letter of intent, promising to broaden the scope of collaboration across various sectors.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Thailand’s Sretha Sretha Thavisin in a bilateral meeting at Government House on Friday.

Bilateral Trade and Regional Development Initiatives

The leaders discussed significant regional and bilateral issues, focusing on expanding trade and initiating discussions on a free trade agreement by 2024. An agreement facilitating easier communication for officials traveling between the two countries was also signed.

MOUs to Bolster Tourism, Energy, and Customs Cooperation

Further strengthening their ties, the nations signed MOUs related to tourism, energy, and customs. These agreements aim to leverage Thai expertise in tourism and energy sectors while enhancing customs cooperation to boost bilateral trade efficiency.

Maritime and Agricultural Cooperation

Talks also covered the establishment of a direct shipping line to enhance maritime communications and cooperation in agriculture and food processing, aiming to bolster food security in both nations.

Fostering Regional Cooperation and Support

Under the BIMSTEC framework, the leaders discussed regional cooperation, with Thailand ready to hand over the chairmanship to Bangladesh later this year. They also addressed the need for a sustainable solution to the Rohingya crisis, with Bangladesh seeking Thailand’s continued support.

Invitations and Future Engagements

Concluding the visit, which began last Wednesday on Thavisin’s invitation, Sheikh Hasina invited the Thai Prime Minister to visit Bangladesh, underlining the importance of ongoing high-level visits to fortify the partnership.