Bangladesh and Chile have discussed the possibility of opening resident diplomatic missions in each other’s capitals as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation in trade and investment.
The issue was discussed during a bilateral meeting between Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman and Chilean Foreign Minister Francisco Pérez Mackenna held in Manila, Philippines, on July 25.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of events marking the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC), according to a statement issued by the Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During the meeting, the two foreign ministers discussed opportunities to increase bilateral trade and agreed in principle to explore the possibility of establishing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries.
They also discussed the import of critical minerals from Chile and opportunities to expand Bangladesh’s exports to the Chilean market.
Bangladesh’s potential export products to Chile include ready-made garments, pharmaceuticals, electrical goods, and leather products.
Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman proposed exchanging business delegations between the two countries to identify new opportunities in trade and investment and to enhance cooperation between the private sectors.
Chilean Foreign Minister Francisco Pérez Mackenna also expressed his interest in visiting Bangladesh.
The meeting reflected the shared interest of both countries in deepening diplomatic ties and creating new opportunities for cooperation in trade, investment, and economic development.
Ref/Photo: Dhaka Tribune
