The newly appointed High Commissioner of Malaysia to Bangladesh H.E. Mohd Shuhada Othman paid a courtesy call on the Foreign Secretary Ambassador Md. Jashim Uddin ndc, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Foreign Secretary Ambassador Md. Jashim Uddin congratulated Malaysia for the upcoming Chairmanship of ASEAN in January 2025. He sought Malaysia’s support for Bangladesh’s bid to become Sectoral Dialogue Partner of ASEAN and resolving the protracted Rohingya crisis. He also emphasized the issue of 18000 stranded Bangladeshi workers who were unable to enter Malaysia by 31 May 2024. The High Commissioner informed that relevant agencies of the Malaysian government are working in this regard.
Both sides discussed the possible collaboration in the areas of manpower, trade, investment and halal economy. Foreign Secretary said that Bangladesh can offer dedicated Economic Zone for the Malaysian investors in Bangladesh. During the discussion, Foreign Secretary hoped that Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations between the two countries would commence soon. They also discussed about cooperation in the area of vocational training. Both sides expressed optimism to hold the next Foreign Office Consultations early next year.
Building on the outcome of the recent visit of the Prime Minister of Malaysia to Bangladesh, both sides reiterated commitment to enhancing the bilateral relations to a new height. The Foreign Secretary assured the High Commissioner of all possible support during his stint in Bangladesh.