ASEAN's collective market holds significant promise for Bangladesh’s economic growth: Momen

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on Tuesday said the collective market of ASEAN holds significant promise for Bangladesh's economic growth.

"We are eager to explore opportunities for increased collaboration in sectors such as textile, pharmaceuticals, information technology, agriculture, blue economy, and renewable energy," he said, adding that another area of mutual interest is the promotion of peace and stability in the region.

The foreign minister was speaking as the chief guest at a function celebrating 56th ASEAN Day at the Thai embassy in Dhaka.

Momen said Bangladesh highly values the ASEAN community and the constructive role it plays in the global arena.

He emphasized the immense potential for cooperation between Bangladesh and ASEAN. "We recognize the importance of strengthening ties in trade, investment, technology, and human capital development."

The foreign minister said that Bangladesh commends ASEAN's commitment to resolve disputes through peaceful means and inclusive dialogue.

Bangladesh firmly believes that peaceful resolution of conflicts is the key to fostering greater understanding and cooperation between nations, Momen said.

"As we celebrate the ASEAN Day, let us renew our determination and redouble our collective efforts to build bridges of understanding and cooperation, fostering an environment where peace and progress can thrive," he said.

"Together, we can create a brighter and more prosperous future for our people and the generations to come," he added.

Momen said Bangladesh's peace-centric foreign policy – centered on the Father of the Nation's dictum "Friendship to all, malice toward none" – promotes principles of non-alignment.

He said this is been aptly reflected in Bangladesh's recently announced Indo-Pacific Outlook.

Bangladesh is willing to become a Sectorial Dialogue Partner (SDP) of ASEAN to deepen its relations with member states and their people, Momen said.

He said the presence of Bangladesh in the ASEAN is expected to forge synergistic partnership towards mutual benefits.

"I spoke about the vast potentials and sentiments between ASEAN and Bangladesh during my interactions with ASEAN leaders and its secretary general, drawing their appreciation, while attending the recently held 30th ASEAN Regional Forum in Jakarta," he said.

Diplomats representing ASEAN countries in Dhaka were present at the event.