Bangladesh is soon set to graduate from a least developed country (LDC) and as such, will soon no longer be able to enjoy the trade benefits afforded to them. As such, it has been imperative for some time now for us to establish stronger ties with nations, in particular when it comes to trade agreements.
With that in mind, it is a positive development that Bangladesh and Malaysia have agreed to explore the possibility of concluding a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) in order to add further substance to the steadily increasing bilateral trade and economic relations between the two regional countries.
Bangladesh and Malaysia have always had a significant relationship; Malaysia remains one of the top destinations for our migrant workers to go and send back remittance, while also being a prominent destination for Bangladeshi students to go for higher education.
Therefore, discussions between representatives from the two nations, discussed at the third Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) between Bangladesh and Malaysia held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka, are only expected to continue, and strengthen the already established relationship between the two nations.
Malaysia's influence in the region cannot be denied and as such, there should be expectations that, beyond our agreements with regard to trade and commerce with the nation, it plays a more active role in repatriating the Rohingya -- an avenue where it, as with much of the international community -- have not done their part.
Moving forward, Bangladesh must continue to hone its diplomacy with allies and potential allies alike. Stronger ties with nations will be a fundamental component for Bangladesh's continued success and growth.
