Bangladesh seeks expanded trade and energy investment through diplomatic talks

Bangladesh State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir has engaged in separate diplomatic meetings to strengthen bilateral ties with Indonesia and Norway, focusing on trade, investment, and energy.

In discussions with Indonesian Ambassador Listyowati, Kobir urged Indonesia to increase imports of Bangladeshi products and services to move toward a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The talks covered pharmaceutical exports, energy sector investment, and disaster management. Kobir also requested easier visa processing for Bangladeshi nationals and sought Indonesian support for Bangladesh to become an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner and join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

In a meeting with Norwegian Ambassador Hakon Arald Gulbrandsen, Kobir sought increased Norwegian investment in Bangladesh’s renewable energy sector to support the nation’s green transition. The two diplomats discussed cooperation in maritime affairs, fisheries, climate change, and technology transfer, specifically regarding environmentally sound ship recycling.