BD-Germany keen to strengthenning ties
Diplomatic Correspondent :
Bangladesh and Germany have expressed their intention to expand cooperation in trade, governance, and education, reaffirming a strong partnership built on mutual respect and shared democratic values.
Newly appointed German Ambassador Dr Rüdiger Lotz paid a courtesy call on Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna on Wednesday, where the two sides discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations and address common challenges.
Welcoming the envoy, Professor Yunus expressed confidence that the long-standing friendship between the two nations would grow further under Dr Lotz’s tenure.
He praised Germany’s consistent partnership in Bangladesh’s development and highlighted the country’s vital role as Bangladesh’s largest trading partner in Europe.
The two sides discussed a wide range of issues, including upcoming
national elections, political reforms, trade and investment, education, and humanitarian cooperation.
Ambassador Lotz conveyed his government’s support for the Interim Government and lauded its reform measures, particularly the adoption of the July National Charter, describing it as a promising step towards inclusive governance.
“It’s good to see political parties sitting down together and having conversations. The country should continue these reform initiatives after the election,” he said.
In response, the Chief Adviser credited the National Consensus Commission for uniting major political parties to sign the Charter, calling it a “historic moment” that reflected a shared commitment to national progress.
He reiterated that the government was taking all necessary steps to ensure a peaceful and participatory general election in February 2026.
Both sides also discussed the growing number of Bangladeshi students pursuing higher education in Germany and agreed that this people-to-people connection was an important bridge between the two nations.
On humanitarian issues, they exchanged views on the Rohingya crisis, with the Ambassador reaffirming Germany’s continued support for refugees in Bangladesh.
Professor Yunus further emphasised the importance of youth engagement and digital awareness. “Thanks to technology and social media, today’s youth can speak up, connect, and identify injustice,” he said, while cautioning against the spread of disinformation ahead of the polls.
The meeting concluded with mutual optimism about the future of Bangladesh-Germany relations, underpinned by shared democratic values, trade interests, and a deepening partnership between their peoples.