May a new dimension of the relationship begin

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s ongoing visits to Malaysia and China are being viewed as a significant beginning for Bangladesh’s foreign policy. The countries are two of Bangladesh’s key development partners. The government states that it aims to build balanced relationships with these countries, while simultaneously prioritizing economic development, increased investment, and national interests above all else. This objective is undoubtedly commendable; however, given the current regional and global realities, the path ahead is by no means easy.

Meanwhile, PM Tarique Rahman reached Kuala Lumpur on Sunday afternoon embarking on his first official visit to this country. He is now on a two-day visit to Malaysia. From Malaysia, he will proceed to China, where he will stay from June 23 to 26. During this time, the Prime Minister will hold meetings with leaders of both countries to discuss various issues of mutual interest. It is expected that this visit will elevate Bangladesh’s relations with these two nations to a significantly higher level.

It is to be noted that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is visiting Malaysia at the invitation of the Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The delegation led by him included the Foreign Minister; the Minister of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment; the Minister of Information and Broadcasting; the Prime Minister’s Advisor on Foreign Affairs; the Advisor on Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment; the Advisor on Information and Broadcasting; and relevant senior government officials.

On June 22, the Prime Minister will hold a meeting with the Prime Minister of Malaysia. Discussions will cover various issues, including the expansion of trade and investment, energy cooperation, the deployment of workers, the semiconductor industry, agriculture, education, and the enhancement of people-to-people ties.

Particular emphasis will be placed on the recruitment of Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia, the intake of a larger number of skilled workers, and the skill development of Bangladeshi workers. Bangladesh will also seek Malaysia’s support for including it as an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner and for its accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

PM Tarique Rahman’s visit to China, undertaken at the invitation of the Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang, is expected to elevate the country’s relations China to new heights. During the visit, he will hold meetings with the Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang and President Xi Jinping. Several important Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are likely to be signed following the meeting.

We hope that the Prime Minister’s visit will further strengthen Bangladesh’s relations with Malaysia and China. Through mutual cooperation, these nations will achieve greater prosperity. We also hope this visit will play a significant role in enhancing regional cooperation.