Bangladesh-Turkey ties: Economic promise and strategic partnership

Dr. Nasim Ahmed :

Bangladesh and Turkey maintain a complex, historically rooted bilateral relationship that has gradually strengthened over the past fifty years.

Based on mutual respect, shared interests, and deep cultural connections, this partnership has grown to include economic, social, and strategic sectors.

As both countries adapt to shifting global circumstances, their cooperation in trade and investment, tourism and culture, education, and security reflects a practical, future-focused approach.

Both countries see strategic value in expanding their relations beyond traditional ties. Turkey’s geographic position as a connector between Europe and Asia, and Bangladesh’s strategic location in South Asia and the Bay of Bengal, offer complementary interests that support cooperation in regional forums, multilateral diplomacy, and global governance.

Strategic alignment is evident in Turkey’s consistent support for Bangladesh on key international issues, including peacekeeping and development cooperation initiatives.

Conversely, Bangladesh values Turkey’s diplomatic influence in regional stability and economic integration processes.

Over time, this shared strategic outlook has led to expanded diplomatic engagements at the highest political levels, including presidential and ministerial visits that strengthen long-term cooperation agendas.

Two-way trade has shown a positive trend, although it remains below potential relative to both countries’ economic capacities.

Turkey is one of the important export markets for Bangladeshi ready-made garments and jute products, while Bangladesh imports machinery, textiles, and industrial goods from Turkey.

Despite this progress, the trade balance stays skewed in Turkey’s favor, highlighting the need for more diversified Bangladeshi exports and increased market access through trade agreements.

Foreign direct investment from Turkey into Bangladesh has gradually increased but remains modest compared to global levels.

Turkish companies have shown interest in Bangladesh’s infrastructure, energy, textile, and telecommunications sectors.

Well-known Turkish firms are involved in construction projects and industrial ventures, helping to create jobs and transfer technology.

To promote mutual economic benefits, both governments have initiated efforts such as business forums and trade delegations to strengthen trade ties.

Additionally, recent diplomatic talks have covered topics like Preferential Trade Agreements or improved economic cooperation frameworks to support market integration.

Cultural affinity is vital in Bangladesh-Turkey relations. Cultural exchanges happen through festivals, exhibitions, and artistic collaborations that strengthen connections among people.

Turkey’s historic sites and Bangladesh’s vibrant culture provide complementary opportunities for cultural tourism.

Tourism collaboration, although increasing, remains underutilized. Turkey’s popularity as a destination for Bangladeshi tourists, especially for historical and religious sites, has grown due to better connectivity and marketing efforts.

Similarly, Bangladesh’s beautiful landscapes, UNESCO heritage sites, and cultural festivals offer opportunities to attract Turkish visitors.

Strengthening tourism cooperation requires coordinated marketing campaigns, visa agreements, and better airline links.

Cultural exchanges through academic partnerships, film festivals, and joint cultural events can help build mutual understanding and boost soft power for both nations.

Education and human capital development are growing areas of cooperation that act as long-term investments in bilateral relationships.

Scholarships and academic exchange programs between Turkish and Bangladeshi universities allow students to pursue higher education in various fields, including engineering, social sciences, and Islamic studies.

These academic links not only boost educational outcomes but also help shape future leaders with cross-cultural perspectives.

Turkey’s educational institutions have expanded outreach programs for Bangladeshi students, enhancing capacity building and research collaboration.

Meanwhile, Bangladeshi academic institutions are increasingly participating in faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and seminar partnerships with Turkish counterparts.

These educational ties foster innovation, cross-border knowledge sharing, and a deeper understanding of global best practices.

To enhance educational collaboration, both countries can pursue dual-degree programs, vocational training partnerships, and research funding collaborations in key fields like technology and sustainable development.

The security and strategic partnership between Bangladesh and Turkey has become more significant as both countries face complex regional and global challenges.

Although their relationship in this area is less formal than other bilateral ties, new areas of cooperation include defense training, military exchanges, and counterterrorism discussions.

Turkey’s defense industry expertise and Bangladesh’s evolving security needs create opportunities for joint projects that improve interoperability and strengthen capabilities.

Regional security issues, such as maritime security in the Bay of Bengal, countering extremism, and maintaining stability in South and Central Asia, create common ground for strategic dialogue.

Both countries participate in international peacekeeping missions, with Turkey’s involvement in UN operations and Bangladesh’s status as one of the largest troop contributors.

These shared commitments strengthen mutual interests in global security frameworks and collaborative peace efforts.

However, expanding strategic cooperation requires careful alignment with each country’s foreign policy priorities and regional sensitivities.

Open communication, confidence-building measures, and joint training platforms can strengthen defense and security ties without undermining national strategic autonomy.

To realize the full potential of this partnership, both countries must implement targeted policies that address structural challenges, deepen economic connections, and promote sustainable people-to-people engagement.

By strengthening institutional collaboration, enhancing cultural and educational ties, and aligning strategic interests, both countries can transform their bilateral relationship into a resilient and comprehensive partnership that benefits their citizens and supports regional stability.

(The author is Associate Professor of Public Policy Bangladesh Institute of Governance and Management, Affiliated with the University of Dhaka)