Bangladesh (Commonwealth Union)_ The UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific Anne-Marie Trevelyan’s visit to Dhaka signifies a pivotal moment for UK-Bangladesh relations, as both nations aim to intensify collaboration across key areas such as migration, economic reform, and security. Scheduled for a two-day visit, Minister Trevelyan’s presence underscores the UK’s unwavering commitment to bolstering bilateral ties with Bangladesh, as per the latest press release.
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Accordingly, today’s trip marks Minister Trevelyan’s second visit to Bangladesh in her capacity as Indo-Pacific Minister, during which she intends to reaffirm the UK’s dedication to fostering robust cooperation between the two countries. The program of her visit includes meetings with Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud, where discussions are anticipated to revolve around various crucial topics, including migration cooperation, trade relations, and the UK’s assistance for the Rohingya refugee crisis.
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In addition to engaging with government officials, Minister Trevelyan is scheduled to meet with representatives from diverse sectors, including business, humanitarian organizations, and climate experts. Through these interactions, she aims to underscore the significance of democracy and human rights as fundamental pillars for sustainable growth and prosperity. Additionally, she will also announce initiatives to encourage Bangladeshi youth and vulnerable groups to participate in climate action efforts.
Expressing her enthusiasm about the visit, Minister Trevelyan highlighted the significance of a new trade policy project aimed at fostering closer collaboration between the UK and Bangladesh, thereby strengthening their economic ties. Furthermore, she reiterated the UK’s steadfast support for the Rohingya population in both Myanmar and Bangladesh, announcing a substantial humanitarian assistance package aimed at improving access to essential services for Rohingya refugees and host communities in Bangladesh.
Echoing Minister Trevelyan’s sentiments, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Sarah Cooke, emphasized the enduring friendship between the UK and Bangladesh, underpinned by deep cultural and people-to-people connections. Cooke reiterated the commitment of both nations to enhancing cooperation across various fronts, ranging from economic challenges to climate change initiatives, in pursuit of shared goals and mutual prosperity.
Furthermore, highlighting the UK’s continued support for the Rohingya community, Minister Trevelyan disclosed plans for significant humanitarian assistance, aimed at addressing pressing needs and bolstering infrastructure within refugee camps to mitigate risks posed by natural disasters. Additionally, she unveiled a new trade policy project, wherein the UK will provide technical expertise to Bangladesh to fortify its trade policy capabilities and facilitate successful graduation from Least Developed Country status by 2026.
