Discussion on increasing bilateral trade and Rohingya repatriation

The meeting discussed various important issues including expansion of existing bilateral trade between Bangladesh and Myanmar, increasing import-export of goods, strengthening water transport connectivity, LNG import, and expanding mutual investment opportunities.

Commerce Minister Khondker Abdul Muktadir said Bangladesh is committed to strengthening relations with neighboring countries on the basis of mutual respect, trust and economic cooperation. He also said that matters related to trade, transport, investment and border connectivity involving other ministries will be reviewed through inter-ministerial coordination.

The Commerce Minister said that the geographical proximity and existing potential can be utilized to further increase trade between the two countries. Both countries will work together to make the economic relationship between Bangladesh and Myanmar more meaningful and dynamic by resolving mutual interests through discussion.

Myanmar Ambassador expressed interest in increasing the volume of trade between the two countries. He said if the long-suspended border trade is resumed, traders and people of both countries will benefit. If necessary, the issue of resuming border trade initially on a limited or temporary basis may be considered.

The meeting exchanged views on opportunities to increase trade in potential products including agricultural and fishery products, rice, medicines, frozen food. Emphasis was also placed on strengthening business-level contact and Business-to-Business (B2B) activities.

At this time, the issue of safe, voluntary, sustainable and dignified repatriation of the forcibly displaced Rohingya population taking shelter in Bangladesh came up in the discussion. The Ambassador of Myanmar informed that the process of verification of the list received for repatriation is ongoing. If the security and field-level situation is favorable, initiatives will be taken to take the repatriation process forward. The Bangladesh side emphasized creating a favorable environment for speedy repatriation and effective and visible progress in this regard, said the Commerce Minister.

Both sides agreed to hold regular institutional discussions and joint committee meetings between the two countries. The proposal to hold the next joint meeting in Bangladesh was also discussed.

The meeting emphasized the establishment of direct water and shipping connectivity between Bangladesh and Myanmar and expediting the finalization of the proposed agreement in this regard. Both sides expressed the view that if direct water transport is launched, transport costs and time will be reduced, and the volume of bilateral trade will increase significantly.

In the meeting, both sides expressed their commitment to take bilateral trade, investment, connectivity and regional linkage to new heights.

The meeting was attended by Commerce Secretary Md. Ataur Rahman Khan, Additional Secretary (FTA) Ayesha Akhtar and Counselor of Myanmar Embassy Myat Lwin.