Bangladesh and Singapore have agreed to expand cooperation in trade, investment and skilled migration as both countries look to strengthen their long-standing partnership and deepen engagement across regional and multilateral platforms.
The commitment came during a bilateral meeting between Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and Singapore’s Foreign Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan on the sidelines of the ASEAN Regional Forum Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Manila on Thursday.
At the beginning of the meeting, Dr Balakrishnan congratulated his Bangladeshi counterpart on being elected president of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
In response, Khalilur Rahman said, "He would ensure that the interests of smaller nations, including Singapore, remain among his priorities during his presidency.”
The discussions focused on broadening economic cooperation between the two countries. Both ministers agreed to encourage greater trade and investment while creating more opportunities for skilled workers and maintaining close coordination within international organisations.
Singapore also reaffirmed the importance of the Bangladeshi community living and working in the city-state.
Dr Balakrishnan recognised their contribution to Singapore’s economy and welcomed the continued arrival of skilled professionals from Bangladesh.
During the meeting, Bangladesh sought Singapore’s support for its efforts to become an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner and to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), one of the world’s largest free trade blocs.
The Bangladeshi foreign minister also raised the ongoing Rohingya refugee crisis, requesting Singapore’s backing for international efforts aimed at achieving a lasting and sustainable solution.
The ministers also reviewed progress towards a proposed free trade agreement between Bangladesh and Singapore and agreed to continue negotiations with the aim of concluding the deal.
The meeting reflected the growing importance both countries place on strengthening economic links and expanding cooperation at a time of increasing regional integration in Asia. With discussions continuing on trade, labour mobility and multilateral engagement, both governments signalled their intention to build on existing ties and pursue new areas of partnership.
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