Yunus, Tobgay pledge stronger collaboration across Saarc, Bimstec
They also noted progress in implementing the agreement on the movement of traffic-in-transit
Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and visiting Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation at international, regional, and sub-regional platforms, including Saarc and Bimstec, based on shared values, mutual respect, understanding, and a common aspiration for peace and prosperity.
Both leaders also reiterated their commitment to deeper bilateral engagement, according to a joint statement issued today (23 November).
They welcomed the formation of the Joint Working Group (JWG) to advance the development of the Bhutanese Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Kurigram and expressed satisfaction with ongoing collaboration.
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The two sides also noted progress in implementing the agreement on the movement of traffic-in-transit. They highlighted that the trial run of goods transportation from Chattogram Port to Burimari Land Port is nearing completion.
Bangladesh proposed supplying pharmaceuticals to Bhutan on a government-to-government basis, an initiative both sides said would improve Bhutan's access to affordable, quality healthcare products.
At the invitation of the chief adviser, the Bhutanese Prime Minister is on a state visit from 22 to 24 November. He is scheduled to return to Thimphu tomorrow morning.
The joint statement described the visit as a reaffirmation of the deep-rooted friendship and goodwill between the two countries.
On Saturday evening, the chief adviser hosted a banquet in the Bhutanese leader's honour. Earlier, the two heads of government held official talks in a warm and cordial atmosphere reflecting the time-tested ties between Dhaka and Thimphu.
The leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, including trade, connectivity, and people-to-people links.
Prof Yunus recalled Bhutan's historic role as the first country to recognise Bangladesh on 6 December 1971 and expressed gratitude for its invaluable support during the Liberation War.
Both sides stressed the need to expand bilateral trade and boost private-sector cooperation.
During the visit, Prime Minister Tobgay also met Bangladeshi business leaders to explore new opportunities for economic collaboration.
Bangladesh lauded Bhutan's vision for the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) and conveyed its willingness to support the project's development.
The two sides expressed satisfaction with ongoing cooperation in human resource development, connectivity, tourism, and culture.
In the presence of the two leaders, two MoUs - MoU on Trade of International Internet Bandwidth and other Telecommunication Services; and MoU on Appointment of Health Workforce were signed.
The Bhutanese prime minister expressed appreciation for the cordial welcome and warm hospitality extended to him and the members of his delegation.
He extended an invitation to the chief adviser to visit Bhutan at a mutually convenient time.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enduring engagements and cooperation between the two countries and their people.
