Bangladesh and Sweden on Wednesday underscored the importance of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) to enhance bilateral trade.

The two sides discussed avenues for diversifying and strengthening cooperation in trade and investment, telecommunication, technology, cybersecurity, skills development, human rights, people-to-people exchange, climate change, and peace and security.

The issues were discussed when Director and Head of Department for Asia, the Pacific Region and Latin America at the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs Daniel Wolven paid a courtesy call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Daniel Wolven congratulated Shama Obaed on her election and assumption of the role as the state minister for foreign affairs.

The state minister described Sweden as a trusted and long-standing partner of Bangladesh and appreciated its support for Bangladesh’s socio-economic development, gender equality, and climate resilience.

She also outlined various initiatives of the government, including creative economy and provisions in the budget of FY2026-27, for women empowerment and gender equality.

Citing the long-standing ties and economic impact of the development cooperation, Daniel Wolven said Sweden will continue its development cooperation to Bangladesh, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Shama Obaed encouraged more Swedish investment in renewable energy, green technology, pharmaceuticals, and engineering.

She sought Sweden’s greater support for a durable solution to the Rohingya crisis, including for safe and sustainable repatriation of the Rohingyas to Myanmar.

The two sides further exchanged views on regional and global issues, underscoring the importance of peace, stability, and enhanced international cooperation.

Earlier in the day, Wolven called on Dr Md Nazrul Islam, secretary (East and West) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and discussed pathways for enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest.