Dhaka, London keen to strengthen economic ties

Bangladesh and the United Kingdom have explored ways to further strengthen the existing trade and business relationship between the two countries.

Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman and Adviser to the Prime Minister Humayun Kabir held a bilateral meeting with Sir Chris Bryant, the UK minister of state for trade in London, said the Bangladesh High Commission in London on Tuesday (9 March).

They highlighted the importance of unlocking investment in the blue economy sector of Bangladesh, broadening the "Made in Bangladesh" brand, safeguarding investor interests, enhancing cooperation in the education sector and expanding multilateral cooperation.

Both sides agreed to remain in close contact in the run-up to the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference to be held in Cameroon later this month.

UK Trade Envoy to Bangladesh Baroness Rosie Winterton of Doncaster called on Foreign Minister Khalilur and Prime Minister's Adviser Humayun at the Bangladesh High Commission in London.

They discussed potential cooperation in the aviation sector and action to make Bangladesh a regional aviation hub.

The delegation held two separate meetings to advance Bangladesh's aviation sector.

Professor Dapo Akande, the UK's candidate for the position of one of the judges of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for the term 2027–2036, called on Khalilur and Humayun and presented his candidature.

The two sides expressed satisfaction at the existing cooperation between Bangladesh and the United Kingdom in various multilateral forums and intergovernmental elections.

They reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening this partnership in international legal and diplomatic arenas in the days ahead.