Bangladesh and Australia have shown interest in deepening cooperation on development partnerships, strategic and regional issues with the spirit of mutual understanding.
Both side shown their interest on Tuesday during fifth senior official talk between two countries held at the department of foreign affairs and trade (DFAT) of Australia.
Additional Foreign Secretary (Bilateral-East & West) Md. Nazrul Islam and First Assistant Secretary, South and Central Asia Division of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia Sarah Storey led the delegations on respective sides. High level government officials of relevant departments along with Mission officials of both countries were also present during the talks.
A foreign ministry press release issued in Dhaka said the discussion covered a wide array of issues, including development partnership, sectoral cooperation, strategic and regional issues, migration issues, civil maritime cooperation, security and defense cooperation, and cooperation in multilateral fora.
Recognizing Australia's continued support in Bangladesh's development efforts since independence, Bangladesh sought technical and expert support from Australia in its Agriculture, education, energy, blue economy and ICT sectors.
During the talk, Bangladesh asked Australia to play more proactive role in pursuing global community to put collective political pressure on Myanmar for an enduring solution to Rohingya problem.
Reiterating Australia’s steadfast support to current interim government, Australian side sought Bangladesh’s assistance in addressing irregular migrant issues, handling of people smuggling and trafficking in persons as well as transnational organized crimes.
While appreciating Bangladesh’s economic and social development, Australian delegation expressed its keen interest in working more closely with Bangladesh on issues of mutual interests in the days to come.
Climate change featured prominently in the talks, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to addressing global environmental challenges. Australia acknowledged Bangladesh's vulnerability to climate impacts and pledged continued support for Bangladesh’s climate adaptation and resilience efforts.
Regional and global issues of mutual interest, including Indo-Pacific outlook, counter-terrorism, and multilateral cooperation, were also on the agenda. The talks reflected the shared commitment to upholding peace, security, and prosperity in the region.
The officials expressed satisfaction with the progress made in the bilateral relationship and identified areas for further collaboration. They reiterated their dedication to strengthening ties and working together to address shared challenges.
Both sides underscored the importance of regular exchange of visits, including at the highest level, as well as regular contacts and interaction between leaders and officials, to take forward bilateral cooperation to a new level.
The next round of senior officials’ talks will be held in Dhaka in 2025.
Bd-Pratidin English/ Afsar Munna
