Foreign Minister and State Minister Meet Envoys of China, India and Pakistan; Bilateral Ties to Be Strengthened
Dhaka, 23 February 2026 – Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed held separate courtesy meetings with the Ambassador of China and the High Commissioners of India and Pakistan at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reaffirming Bangladesh’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation.
China Reaffirms Strategic Partnership
Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen described his meeting with the foreign minister and state minister as cordial and substantive, noting that discussions covered China–Bangladesh relations, bilateral cooperation, and the Rohingya crisis. He emphasized that China’s cooperation with Bangladesh and other South Asian countries benefits regional people and “is not targeted at any third party.” The ambassador expressed hope that relations would reach a new height under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s leadership and reiterated China’s support for Bangladesh’s sovereignty, stability, and development priorities. On the Teesta River issue, he said China remains ready to work with the new government.
India Signals Constructive Engagement
Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma also met with the foreign minister and state minister and reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening the multifaceted and people-centric partnership between the two countries. He expressed New Delhi’s readiness to engage with Bangladesh’s new government in a positive, constructive, and forward-looking manner based on mutual interests, highlighting people-to-people connectivity as a key pillar of bilateral ties.
Pakistan Expresses Interest in Closer Cooperation
Pakistan’s High Commissioner Imran Haider conveyed Islamabad’s strong interest in working closely with Bangladesh’s new government to further strengthen and expand bilateral cooperation. According to the Foreign Ministry, Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman and State Minister Shama Obaed emphasized exploring new avenues of collaboration for the benefit of both nations and underscored Bangladesh’s priority of enhancing regional cooperation in South Asia. Separately, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also held a telephone conversation with Dr. Khalilur Rahman on bilateral matters. The meetings reflect the new government’s active diplomatic engagement and its intent to reinforce Bangladesh’s regional and strategic partnerships.
New Cabinet Takes Oath as South Asian Leaders Join Bangladesh’s Inauguration Ceremony
Dhaka, 18 February 2026 – Newly elected members of the 13th National Parliament and members of Bangladesh’s new cabinet took oath yesterday in a historic ceremony held at the South Plaza of the National Parliament complex, marking a departure from the traditional venue at Bangabhaban’s Durbar Hall. The open-air ceremony was attended by invited guests, including foreign heads of state and government representatives, speakers, ministers, senior officials, and diplomats. The event drew notable participation from South Asian countries, reflecting regional attention toward Bangladesh’s new government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu attended the ceremony in person and congratulated the new prime minister. Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay also traveled to Dhaka to join the event. India was represented by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, whose participation was viewed as a signal of New Delhi’s continued support for parliamentary cooperation and democratic engagement between the two countries. Pakistan was represented by Planning and Development Minister Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhry, while Nepal’s Foreign Minister Bala Nanda Sharma attended on behalf of Kathmandu and reaffirmed friendly bilateral relations. Following the oath ceremony, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman met with visiting foreign dignitaries at his office within the Parliament complex and held brief bilateral discussions. The event marked the formal beginning of the new government’s tenure, with expectations of renewed regional engagement and cooperation in the coming years.
Sri Lanka High Commission in Dhaka Celebrates 78th Independence Day
Dhaka, 5 February 2026 – The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Dhaka celebrated the 78th National Independence Day of Sri Lanka at its premises, joining members of the Sri Lankan community living in Bangladesh in a solemn and festive commemoration. The ceremony began with the hoisting of the Sri Lankan national flag, followed by the singing of the national anthem and the recital of the Jayamangala Gatha. Religious leaders representing Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, and Islamic faiths conducted multi-faith observances, reflecting Sri Lanka’s cultural and religious diversity. Participants also observed a two-minute silence in remembrance of national heroes and those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence and sovereignty. Messages from Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, and Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath were read during the event. Adding cultural colour to the occasion, students from the Sri Lanka School in Bangladesh performed traditional cultural items. Addressing the gathering, Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dharmapala Weerakkody, emphasized the importance of unity, resilience, and coexistence among Sri Lanka’s diverse communities. He urged Sri Lankans to uphold these values while working toward a peaceful and prosperous future. The High Commissioner also expressed gratitude to the Sri Lankan community and business groups in Bangladesh for their financial and material support for disaster relief efforts in Sri Lanka following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. He particularly acknowledged the joint initiative of Sri Lankan community organizations in Dhaka for mobilizing assistance. He further invited continued support from Sri Lankans in Bangladesh for the Sri Lankan government’s “Rebuilding Sri Lanka” initiative aimed at long-term recovery and socio-economic development. Highlighting the friendly and longstanding bilateral ties between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, the High Commissioner noted both countries’ commitment to expanding cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges. The celebration concluded with the serving of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine to guests and participants, marking the occasion in a festive spirit.
Bangladesh–US 9th Land Forces Talks (LFT) 2026 Conclude Successfully in Dhaka
Dhaka, 28 January 2026 – The Bangladesh–United States 9th Land Forces Talks (LFT) 2026 concluded successfully on January 27 following a two-day meeting held from January 26–27 at the conference room of the Army Sports Control Board in Dhaka Cantonment. The meeting was organized as a follow-up to the 9th Land Forces Talks held in the United States from 8–10 September 2025. Senior representatives from both armies participated in the discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral military cooperation and enhancing mutual capabilities. A 22-member delegation from the Bangladesh Army was led by Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Badrul Haque, SPP, AFWC, PSC, Engineers, from the Military Training Directorate. The four-member US delegation was headed by Major Michael Jacob Oster, Security Cooperation Officer of the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC). The opening and closing sessions were attended by Brigadier General Md. Humayun Kabir, SUP (Bar), SPP, ndc, psc, MPhil, Director of the Military Training Directorate. During the talks, both sides held extensive discussions on military cooperation, capacity building, and strategic engagement. Emphasis was placed on training exchanges, strengthening the use of advanced military technologies and equipment, and expanding opportunities for joint exercises and drills. The delegations explored innovative training methods to further enhance operational effectiveness and professionalism. The representatives reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation between the two armies. They also agreed on the importance of working together to contribute to regional security and to enhance joint preparedness for responding to natural and man-made disasters. Discussions further highlighted the need for technological cooperation and preparedness in addressing global security challenges, which both sides noted would play a vital role in promoting regional peace and stability in the future. The successful conclusion of the 9th LFT reflects the growing depth of defense cooperation between Bangladesh and the United States and their shared commitment to advancing military professionalism, interoperability, and regional security.
UNHCR Welcomes Italy’s EUR 1 Million Contribution to Support Healthcare for Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh
Dhaka, 14 January 2026 – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, has welcomed a contribution of EUR 1 million (equivalent to USD 1.2 million) from the Government of Italy to support life-saving healthcare services for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. The funding, provided by Farnesina, Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and its Directorate General for Migration Policies, will help UNHCR and its partners sustain essential health services in the refugee camps. These include primary healthcare, emergency referrals, maternal and child health services, and disease prevention, ensuring continued access to critical care in one of the world’s largest and most complex humanitarian settings. UNHCR said the contribution reflects Italy’s commitment made at the Global Refugee Forum (GRF) to support the protection and empowerment of Rohingya refugees and promote their peaceful coexistence with host communities in Bangladesh.
“Its generous support is vital to safeguarding the health and dignity of Rohingya refugees,” said Ivo Freijsen, UNHCR Representative in Bangladesh, adding that the funding will help address urgent healthcare needs at a time when financial shortfalls are placing immense pressure on life-saving services. Italy’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, H.E. Antonio Alessandro, said Italy has continuously supported international efforts to respond to the Rohingya humanitarian emergency and expressed pride in contributing to critical healthcare activities. He also acknowledged the important role of UNHCR and Bangladesh’s commitment to hosting displaced people while pursuing long-term solutions to the crisis. Now in its ninth year, the Rohingya refugee crisis remains a protracted emergency, with around 1.17 million Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar and on Bhasan Char almost entirely dependent on humanitarian assistance, including healthcare services. UNHCR warned that without sustained international support, hard-won gains in refugee healthcare risk being reversed, with serious consequences for lives and dignity.
The agency noted that Italy’s contribution comes at a time of declining global humanitarian funding, which is forcing difficult prioritization and threatening essential services for vulnerable populations. UNHCR called for continued solidarity with Rohingya refugees and Bangladesh as the host country until conditions for a voluntary, safe, dignified, and sustainable return to Myanmar are achieved.
UN Welcomes Sweden’s USD 2.9 Million Support for Rohingya Response in Cox’s Bazar
Dhaka, 13 January 2026 – The United Nations has welcomed a contribution of USD 2.9 million from the Government of Sweden to support the SAFE+2 (Safe Access to Fuel and Energy Plus, Phase 2) programme, aimed at strengthening safe access to fuel and clean energy for Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar. The funding will support life-saving activities and promote green energy solutions in the refugee camps, particularly by expanding access to clean cooking fuel such as Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and restoring degraded forest areas. The SAFE+2 programme is jointly implemented by UNHCR, FAO, IOM and WFP in close coordination with the Government of Bangladesh. UNHCR said the contribution comes at a critical time, as humanitarian funding remains under pressure while the needs of Rohingya refugees continue to grow. The programme focuses on reducing dependence on firewood, improving environmental protection, and enhancing the safety and dignity of refugees, especially women and girls who are often exposed to protection risks while collecting fuel. Since the introduction of LPG in the camps in 2018, the SAFE+ initiative has helped shift energy use away from firewood to cleaner and safer alternatives. According to UN agencies, the programme has contributed to the protection of more than 14,500 hectares of forest, reduced environmental degradation, and improved health and safety conditions for refugees and host communities. UNHCR Representative in Bangladesh Louise Donovan said that access to clean cooking fuel plays a vital role in ensuring protection and dignity for refugees. “When women and girls no longer need to collect firewood, their safety improves significantly and their daily burden is reduced,” she noted. Sweden’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, Nicolas Weeks, emphasized that despite shrinking global humanitarian resources, the contribution reflects Sweden’s continued solidarity with Rohingya refugees and their Bangladeshi hosts. He said the funding would allow refugees to maintain access to clean cooking fuel while preserving forests and supporting a voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable future. With this latest contribution, Sweden’s total support to the SAFE+ initiative and its predecessor SAFE has reached USD 23.5 million, underscoring Sweden’s long-standing commitment to humanitarian assistance in Bangladesh. The UN reiterated its appreciation to the Government of Sweden for its continued partnership and emphasized that sustained international support remains essential for Bangladesh’s Rohingya response until a durable solution is achieved.
New U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent Christensen Sworn In
Dhaka, 11 January 2026 – Brent Christensen, a seasoned U.S. foreign service official, has been sworn in as the new United States Ambassador to Bangladesh at a ceremony held at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. Christensen took the oath of office administered by U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Michael R. McFaul, marking the official start of his diplomatic assignment. The U.S. State Department highlighted his extensive experience in U.S.–Bangladesh relations and strategic engagement, including prior service in Dhaka. Brent Christensen brings more than two decades of foreign service experience and is expected to play a key role in strengthening trade ties, bilateral cooperation, and strategic partnership between the United States and Bangladesh. After his swearing-in, he is scheduled to travel to Dhaka to begin his mission at the U.S. Embassy. In statements following the ceremony, Christensen said he was “thrilled to return to Bangladesh, a country I know so well,” and expressed his commitment to deepening the two countries’ relationship. The appointment comes at a pivotal time for Bangladesh’s democratic process and economic growth, with U.S. officials emphasizing continued support for a stable, open, and prosperous future.
U.S. Introduces USD 5,000–15,000 Visa Security Deposit for Bangladeshi Travelers from Jan 21
Dhaka, 7 January 2026 – Bangladeshi nationals planning to travel to the United States on business or tourist visas will face new requirements from later this month, as Bangladesh has been included in a U.S. visa bond pilot program set to take effect on January 21, 2026.Under the program, certain Bangladeshi applicants for B1/B2 visas will be required to post a mandatory visa bond before being allowed to travel. The decision, announced by the U.S. Department of State, places Bangladesh among more than 40 countries selected based on visa overstay data compiled by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Officials said Bangladeshi passport holders who are otherwise eligible for a B1/B2 visa may be asked to post a bond of USD 5,000, USD 10,000, or USD 15,000, depending on the outcome of their visa interview. The bond amount will be determined solely at the discretion of the consular officer and assessed on a case-by-case basis. Applicants instructed to post a bond must complete DHS Form I-352 (Immigration Bond) and submit payment exclusively through the U.S. government’s official online payment system, Pay.gov. U.S. authorities have cautioned applicants against using third-party websites or intermediaries, emphasizing that the government will not take responsibility for payments made outside its official platforms. Officials also clarified that paying a visa bond does not guarantee visa approval. Any payment made without direct instruction from a consular officer will not be refunded, even if the visa is ultimately denied. As part of the bond conditions, Bangladeshi travelers covered by the program will be required to enter and exit the United States only through designated airports, namely Boston Logan International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, and Washington Dulles International Airport. Failure to comply with this requirement could result in denied entry or departure records not being properly registered, potentially leading to bond forfeiture. The visa bond will be automatically canceled and refunded if the traveler leaves the United States on or before the authorized stay expires, does not use the visa before it expires, or is denied entry at a U.S. port of entry. However, DHS may determine a bond breach if a visa holder overstays, fails to depart, or attempts to change immigration status, including applying for asylum. Such cases will be reviewed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and the bond amount may be forfeited. The visa bond requirement has been introduced under Section 221(g)(3) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and implemented through a Temporary Final Rule, with the program being tested on a pilot basis. U.S. authorities say the policy is intended to address concerns related to B1/B2 visa overstay rates. In a public advisory, U.S. officials urged Bangladeshi applicants to wait for explicit instructions from consular officers before posting any bond, avoid agents claiming to facilitate bond payments, and strictly comply with all travel and departure conditions to ensure eligibility for bond refunds. The inclusion of Bangladesh in the program is expected to have a notable impact on tourists, business travelers, and family visitors planning trips to the United States from 2026 onward.
Nepal’s Foreign Minister Arrives in Dhaka to Attend State Funeral of Begum Khaleda Zia; Prime Minister Sushila Karki Expresses Condolences
Dhaka, 31 December 2025 – Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Hon. Mr. Bala Nanda Sharma, arrived in Dhaka to attend the state funeral of former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), late Begum Khaleda Zia. Upon his arrival at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, the Nepalese Foreign Minister was received by Nepal’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, Ghanashyam Bhandari, and Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, Mr. M. Forhadul Islam. Meanwhile, Prime Minister of Nepal, Ms. Sushila Karki, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia. In a condolence message, she said, “I am deeply saddened by the death of BNP Chairperson and the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Begum Khaleda Zia.” On behalf of the Government and people of Nepal, Prime Minister Karki conveyed her heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family members, friends, and the people of Bangladesh. She noted that Begum Khaleda Zia left behind a lifelong legacy of public service, and her enduring leadership marked a historic chapter in Bangladesh’s democratic journey. Describing her as a true friend of Nepal, Prime Minister Karki said Begum Khaleda Zia would be remembered for her significant role in strengthening Nepal–Bangladesh bilateral relations. The Nepalese Prime Minister concluded her message by praying for the eternal peace of the departed soul.
Bangladesh Air Force and Leonardo S.p.A Italy Sign Letter of Intent
Dhaka, 10 December 2025 – A Letter of Intent (LOI) was signed yesterday between the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) and Leonardo S.p.A Italy at the Air Force Headquarters in Dhaka. The signing ceremony was attended by Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan, BBP, OSP, GUP, NSWC, psc, along with the Ambassador of Italy to Bangladesh, H.E. Antonio Alessandro. Senior officials, including the Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division and representatives from Leonardo S.p.A, were also present during the event. Under the LOI, Leonardo S.p.A will supply the Eurofighter Typhoon Multi-Role Combat Aircraft to the Bangladesh Air Force as part of BAF’s next-generation frontline combat modernization programme. The agreement marks a significant milestone in strengthening Bangladesh’s air defence capabilities and deepening defence cooperation between Bangladesh and Italy.
EU–BIDA Dialogue Highlights Key Reforms to Strengthen Bangladesh’s Investment Climate
Dhaka, 3 December 2025 – The European Union and the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) convened a high-level EU–BIDA Business Climate Dialogue on 1 December 2025 in Dhaka, bringing together EU ambassadors, senior government officials, and leaders from major European companies to discuss key reforms needed to strengthen Bangladesh’s investment environment ahead of its LDC graduation. Jointly organised by the EU Delegation and BIDA, with support from the Netherlands Embassy and EuroCham Bangladesh, the dialogue gathered private-sector representatives from logistics, apparel, agriculture, energy, engineering, chemicals, finance, healthcare and technology, alongside officials from NBR, Bangladesh Bank, Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Shipping, port authorities, SREDA, BSTI, and other regulatory bodies. EU Ambassador Michael Miller emphasized the shared ambition for a mutually beneficial investment partnership built on transparency, teamwork, and impartial implementation, announcing plans for the Bangladesh–EU Business Forum 2026. European private-sector leaders highlighted challenges ranging from fragmented customs jurisdictions, weak inland waterways, high compliance costs, and unfair competition, to urgent needs for customs modernisation, digitalisation, reduced import duties, simplified procedures, and structured engagement with Bangladesh Bank. They stressed that regulatory predictability, transparency, and ease of doing business are critical to attracting higher-quality European FDI. BIDA’s Nahian Rahman outlined ongoing reforms shaped by investor inputs, including improved inter-agency coordination, transparent progress tracking, and political consultations to ensure continuity. European ambassadors echoed complementary priorities—predictable regulations, governance safeguards, SME development, sustainable value chains, vocational skills, and improved international branding of Bangladesh—while government representatives, including Chittagong Port Authority Chairman Rear Admiral S. M. Moniruzzaman, detailed port modernisation plans such as digitalisation, Bay Terminal development, and 24/7 operations. BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun emphasized structural reforms, prioritisation of investor issues, and annual “result cards,” inviting European companies to expand operations as long-term partners. Special Envoy Lutfey Siddiqi called for a reform roadmap and early engagement with the EU in preparation for LDC graduation. The dialogue concluded with a joint commitment to collaborate on improving the investment climate using EuroCham working groups and to prepare together for the EU–Bangladesh Business Forum 2026.
Indian High Commission Hosts “ITEC Day 2025” in Dhaka
Dhaka, 02 December 2025 – The High Commission of India in Dhaka, in partnership with the ITEC Alumni Association of Bangladesh (IAAB), hosted a reception and get-together on Monday to celebrate Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Day (ITEC Day 2025). The event, held at the High Commission premises, brought together around 150 Bangladeshi alumni of various ITEC training programmes. Speaking at the gathering, Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma described ITEC as a reflection of India’s commitment to South-South cooperation, offering capacity-building and human resource development programmes tailored to the needs of partner countries. Noting that over 5,000 professionals from Bangladesh have received ITEC training over the years, the High Commissioner thanked the alumni for acting as both a bridge of friendship and collaboration and a channel for exchanging expertise between India and Bangladesh. He also appreciated the role of the ITEC Alumni Association of Bangladesh (IAAB) in uniting former trainees under one platform. During the programme, several Bangladeshi alumni shared their training experiences in India. Representatives from partner organizations—including BCSIR, BAEC, SPARSO, and the Bangladesh Land Port Authority (BLPA)—were also present. The event concluded with a cultural performance by Bangladeshi artistes, highlighting the long-standing cultural ties between the two neighbouring countries. ITEC, launched in 1964 as a flagship initiative of the Government of India, forms part of India’s Development Assistance Programme. It currently supports more than 160 countries worldwide, offering over 12,000 training slots annually across more than 300 specialized courses in areas such as agriculture, public administration, governance, IT, data analytics, remote sensing, renewable energy, advanced computing, and more.
Pakistan High Commission Showcases Culture at International Charity Bazaar in Dhaka
Dhaka, 30 November 2025 – The Pakistan High Commission participated in the International Charity Bazaar held in Dhaka today, an event organised by the Foreign Office Spouses Association (FOSA) of Bangladesh. The Pakistan stall, set up by the Women’s Club of the High Commission, featured an attractive collection of traditional Pakistani women’s dresses, handcrafted items, and authentic Pakistani cuisine. The stall drew strong interest from visitors throughout the event. Bangladesh’s Foreign Adviser H.E. Md. Touhid Hossain, Foreign Secretary H.E. Asad Alam Siam, and ambassadors from various participating countries visited the stall and praised the diversity and cultural richness of the products on display.
Courtesy Call Between Chief of Bangladesh Air Force and Canadian High Commissioner
Dhaka, 26 November 2025 – Chief of Air Staff of the Bangladesh Air Force, Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan, BBP, OSP, GUP, NSWC, psc, met with the High Commissioner of Canada to Bangladesh, H.E. Ajit Singh, during a courtesy call at the Air Force Headquarters today. During the meeting, the two dignitaries exchanged greetings and held discussions on matters of mutual interest relating to both countries. They expressed optimism about further strengthening bilateral cooperation, partnership, and strategic ties between Bangladesh and Canada in the future.
Bhutanese Prime Minister Concludes Successful State Visit to Bangladesh
Dhaka, 24 November 2025 — The Prime Minister of Bhutan, H.E. Dasho Tshering Tobgay, has completed a three-day State Visit to Bangladesh from 22 to 24 November 2025 at the invitation of H.E. Professor Muhammad Yunus, Hon’ble Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh. The visit reaffirmed the longstanding friendship between the two neighbouring nations and opened new avenues for cooperation in trade, connectivity, education, and health. Prime Minister Tobgay was accompanied by Lyonpo D.N. Dhungyel, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade; Lyonpo Namgyal Dorji, Minister for Industry, Commerce and Employment; and senior Bhutanese officials. Upon landing at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, the Bhutanese Prime Minister was received by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and honoured with a Guard of Honour and Gun Salute. He later paid tribute to Bangladesh’s Liberation War heroes at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar, laying a floral wreath and planting a sapling. Prime Minister Tobgay also called on the Hon’ble President of Bangladesh, H.E. Mohammed Shahabuddin.
Throughout his visit, the Bhutanese leader held meetings with senior Bangladeshi officials, including Adviser for Foreign Affairs Md. Touhid Hossain and Adviser for Commerce Bashir Uddin. Professor Yunus hosted a state banquet in his honour on 22 November. Bilateral talks between the two leaders were held in a cordial and warm atmosphere, reflecting the time-tested friendship between Bhutan and Bangladesh. Both sides reviewed the full spectrum of cooperation, including trade, connectivity, human resource development, people-to-people exchanges, and education. Chief Adviser Professor Yunus expressed heartfelt gratitude to Bhutan for being the first country to recognise Bangladesh as an independent state on 6 December 1971. Both leaders recalled the State Visit of His Majesty The King of Bhutan in March 2024, which further deepened bilateral ties. The two sides emphasised boosting trade and private-sector collaboration. Prime Minister Tobgay met Bangladeshi business leaders to explore new investment and economic opportunities. Bangladesh appreciated the vision behind the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) project and expressed readiness to support Bhutan in its development. Both sides also welcomed progress on the proposed Bhutanese Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Kurigram.
Two new Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed during the visit:
- MoU on Trade of International Internet Bandwidth and Other Telecommunication Services
- MoU on Appointment of Health Workforce
These agreements are expected to enhance digital cooperation and support Bhutan’s health sector.
Bangladesh reaffirmed several offers to Bhutan, including:
- 10 annual seats for Bhutanese students at BUET
- 1 seat at BKSP for a diploma in sports science
- Access to Bangladeshi sports facilities for Bhutanese teams
- Specialised professional training programmes
Prime Minister Tobgay thanked Bangladesh for previously increasing MBBS/BDS seats for Bhutanese students to 30 annually. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with progress under the Agreement on the Movement of Traffic-in-Transit. The trial run of goods transport between Chattogram Port and Burimari Land Port has been completed successfully. Bangladesh and Bhutan reaffirmed collaboration in SAARC, BIMSTEC, and other regional platforms, guided by shared values, mutual respect, and a vision for peace and prosperity. Prime Minister Tobgay praised the warm hospitality extended by Bangladesh and invited Chief Adviser Professor Yusuf to visit Bhutan at a mutually convenient time. The visit concluded on 24 November 2025, marking another milestone in the enduring friendship and expanding partnership between Bangladesh and Bhutan.