European Union Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller has extended an invitation to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to deliver a keynote address at the Global Gateway Forum 2027. The invitation was handed over during a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The proposed visit will also facilitate a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Rahman and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Forum Details and Objectives
The Global Gateway Forum, hosted by the European Commission, is set to take place on June 8–9, 2027. The event aims to gather Heads of State, government officials, financial institutions, and private sector leaders to advance the EU's global connectivity and infrastructure investment strategy. The forum focuses on sustainable infrastructure, digitalisation, energy, transport, health, and education under the European Union's Global Gateway Initiative.
Potential for Enhanced Cooperation
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s participation in the forum is expected to open up new opportunities for cooperation and investment in various sectors. The forum provides a platform for Bangladesh to engage with global leaders and investors, potentially leading to increased foreign investment and technological collaboration.
Broader Diplomatic Engagements
During the meeting, Ambassador Miller also handed over a congratulatory letter from EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas to Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on his election as President of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The two sides reviewed the broad spectrum of Bangladesh-European Union relations and discussed ways to further deepen cooperation in trade, investment, business, technology, and regional and multilateral affairs.
Future Prospects and Bilateral Meetings
The discussions also covered the proposed Bangladesh-EU Business Forum 2027, upcoming high-level engagements, prospects for a Bangladesh-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), and other issues of mutual interest. Regional and global developments, UN-related matters, and the Rohingya crisis were also prominent in the conversation. Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening the longstanding partnership between Bangladesh and the European Union for mutual benefit.
