A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed on Tuesday between Bangladesh and Indonesia aimed at enhancing cooperation between the two countries in primary and secondary care, health resilience, and health financing.
Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen and Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin signed the MoU on behalf of their respective governments in a meeting on the sidelines of the 43rd Asean and 18th East Asia summits currently taking place in Jakarta.
The MoU is aimed at enhancing cooperation through training, exchange programs, joint research and transfer of technology.
"The signing of the health-cooperation MoU is yet another example of how both countries can reap maximum benefits out of our excellent bilateral relations,” said Momen.
Both ministers expressed hope that proper implementation of this arrangement will improve people-to-people communication between the two friendly nations.
During the meeting, the ministers discussed various bilateral issues like health and food security.
Indonesian Health Minister Sadikin congratulated Bangladesh on its tremendous success in managing the Covid-19 crisis and continuing the growth momentum.
Dr Momen briefed Sadikin on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's stellar contribution to establishing model community clinics dubbed “the Sheikh Hasina Initiative” as an example of the strength and capability of Bangladesh's health sector and its professionals.
Mentioning that Bangladeshi medical colleges are a great choice for many students from the neighbouring countries and beyond, Momen requested the Indonesian health minister for the mutual recognition of academic and professional certification for the benefit of both nations.
Indicating the existing imbalance in the bilateral trade volume and highlighting that Bangladesh's pharmaceutical products are world-class and are being exported to more than 150 countries, Momen also requested the Indonesian side to import pharmaceutical products and raw materials from Bangladesh.
Easing the registration process for Bangladeshi pharmaceutical products in Indonesia will be helpful, Momen said.
Sadikin assured Momen of exploring ways for Indonesian direct investment in Bangladesh's pharmaceutical sector.
The two ministers expressed their satisfaction with the long tradition of strong cooperation between the two countries in regional and international forums, committing to continue working together on issues of mutual interest and concerns.
