Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir and Myanmar Ambassador to Bangladesh Kyaw Soe Moe on Sunday discussed ways to expand bilateral trade, strengthen shipping connectivity and expedite the safe return of forcibly displaced Rohingyas.
During a meeting at the Ministry of Commerce, the two sides discussed expanding bilateral trade, increasing exports and imports, strengthening maritime transport links, importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) and creating greater opportunities for mutual investment.
The minister said Bangladesh remains committed to strengthening relations with neighbouring countries based on mutual respect, trust and economic cooperation.
He said issues relating to trade, transport, investment and border connectivity that involve other ministries will be reviewed through inter-ministerial coordination.
Muktadir said the geographical proximity of Bangladesh and Myanmar and existing opportunities could be utilised to significantly increase bilateral trade.
"Bangladesh and Myanmar will work together to make the economic relationship more meaningful and dynamic after resolving issues of mutual interest through dialogue," he said.
Ambassador Kyaw Soe Moe expressed Myanmar's interest in increasing bilateral trade and said resuming the long-suspended border trade will benefit businesses and people in both countries.
He suggested that, if necessary, border trade could initially be resumed on a limited or temporary basis.
The meeting also explored opportunities to increase trade in agricultural and fisheries products, rice, pharmaceuticals and frozen food, while stressing the importance of strengthening business-to-business (B2B) engagement.
The issue of the safe, voluntary, sustainable and dignified repatriation of the forcibly displaced Rohingya population sheltered in Bangladesh also featured prominently in the discussions.
The Myanmar ambassador said the verification process of the repatriation lists submitted by Bangladesh is ongoing and that initiatives will be taken to move forward with repatriation once the security situation and conditions on the ground become favourable.
The Bangladesh side emphasised the need to create conditions conducive to an early repatriation and called for effective and visible progress on the issue.
Both sides agreed to hold regular institutional dialogues and meetings of the Joint Committee, and also discussed holding the next joint meeting in Bangladesh.
The meeting further underscored the importance of establishing direct maritime and shipping links between the two countries and finalising a proposed agreement on the matter at the earliest.
Both sides expressed optimism that direct shipping connectivity will reduce transportation costs and transit time while significantly boosting bilateral trade.
Both sides expressed their commitment to elevating bilateral trade, investment, connectivity and regional cooperation to a new level.
Commerce Secretary Md Ataur Rahman Khan, Additional Secretary (FTA) Ayesha Akther, and Myanmar Embassy Counsellor Myat Lwin were also present at the meeting.