Bangladesh and Singapore have expressed hope for the early conclusion of a proposed bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA), underscoring the need for stronger business-to-business engagement to deepen trade, investment, and economic cooperation. The issue was discussed during separate meetings between State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam and Singaporean Foreign Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim in Singapore. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Enhanced Trade and Investment Prospects
During the meetings, Shama highlighted Bangladesh's potential to diversify exports to Singapore beyond ready-made garments, particularly in pharmaceuticals, ceramics, agro-products, jute, and jute goods. She invited greater Singaporean investment in Bangladesh, especially in logistics, supply chains, renewable energy, research, and other emerging sectors. The government's commitment to providing a business-friendly and predictable investment environment was reaffirmed.
Skills Development and Employment Opportunities
Shama emphasized Bangladesh's focus on skills development, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and capacity building. She proposed creating greater employment opportunities for Bangladeshi nurses in Singapore's elderly care and nursing sectors, alongside cooperation in relevant training and skills development. The two sides also discussed climate change, water security, carbon credits, research cooperation, cybersecurity, digitalization, and cooperation in combating mosquito-borne diseases.
Humanitarian and Regional Cooperation
The State Minister raised the Rohingya crisis and sought Singapore's support for a sustainable solution and the safe, voluntary, and sustainable repatriation of the forcibly displaced Rohingyas to Myanmar. She also highlighted Bangladesh's interest in reviving SAARC and becoming a Dialogue Partner of ASEAN, seeking Singapore's support in these endeavors. Zhulkarnain underscored the importance of continued dialogue and engagement and referred to Singapore's humanitarian assistance for the Rohingyas.
