Italy has expressed firm support for Bangladesh’s democratic transition and the July Charter, which outlines wide-ranging political and institutional reforms, Italy’s Deputy Minister for Defence Matteo Perego di Cremnago said on Tuesday, reports UNB.
The Italian undersecretary made the remarks during a courtesy meeting with Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka. Describing the Indo-Pacific as the new centre of global gravity, he said Italy is keen to strengthen ties with countries in the region, including Bangladesh, whose growing economy offers opportunities for deeper cooperation.
Perego di Cremnago said the Bangladeshi community in Italy is integrating well, while also raising concerns about illegal migration through the Mediterranean route. He reaffirmed Rome’s full support for the July Charter and for Bangladesh’s democratic transition through the February 12 general elections and referendum, according to the Chief Adviser’s press wing.
The two sides held wide-ranging discussions on trade and defence cooperation, migration, European Union election observation, the upcoming February 12 polls, and the reform agenda under the July Charter.
Chief Adviser Prof Yunus recalled his long-standing ties with Italy, noting that before assuming leadership of Bangladesh’s interim government, he was involved in designing the Milano–Cortina Winter Olympics as a social business initiative.
He underscored the importance of expanding legal migration to developed countries such as Italy and Japan, citing rapidly ageing populations. Prof Yunus also reaffirmed his commitment to holding a free, fair, transparent, and inclusive election on February 12.
Praising the European Union for deploying a large election observation mission, the Chief Adviser said he expects strong voter turnout, particularly among young voters who, he said, were unable to participate meaningfully in elections over the past 16 years under an autocratic system.
Prof Yunus sought Italy’s continued support for Bangladesh’s democratic transition, as well as enhanced cooperation in defence, trade, and investment.
National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, SDGs Affairs Principal Coordinator Lamiya Morshed, and Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh Antonio Alessandro were also present at the meeting.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
