Bangladesh, Russia Vow to Deepen Bilateral Ties

Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman held bilateral talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow on Sunday, with both sides agreeing to strengthen cooperation across trade, energy, defence and regional affairs.

The meeting reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, alongside cooperation in regional and international forums, including the United Nations.

During the talks, the two ministers reflected on their longstanding diplomatic engagement, recalling their early interactions as representatives of their respective countries at the UN nearly four decades ago.

The Bangladeshi foreign minister, who is visiting Moscow at the invitation of his Russian counterpart, highlighted the historic role of the former Soviet Union during Bangladesh’s Liberation War and noted that Russia was among the first countries to recognise Bangladesh after independence.

Both sides expressed interest in marking the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2027 through stronger cooperation and specific initiatives.

Lavrov congratulated Rahman on his election as President of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, while the Bangladeshi minister thanked Russia for supporting his candidacy.

The discussions covered cooperation in sectors including power and energy, agriculture, technology, education, tourism, transport, culture and defence, with both countries pledging to deepen engagement.

Rahman emphasised the need to increase bilateral trade and requested Russia to consider granting duty-free and quota-free access to Bangladeshi products. He also urged Russian investment in Bangladesh’s special economic zones and high-tech parks, particularly in sectors such as engineering, food processing, petrochemicals, steel and information technology.

The Bangladeshi minister also sought Russia’s support for a free trade agreement between Bangladesh and the Eurasian Economic Union and requested backing for Bangladesh’s bid to join groups such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

On energy cooperation, Rahman thanked Russia for progress on the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant and sought support to expedite the commissioning of its second unit.

The two ministers also discussed expanding employment opportunities for Bangladeshi workers in Russia and stressed the importance of finalising pending agreements, including those related to labour mobility and readmission.

Rahman raised the issue of Bangladeshi nationals stranded in Russia, with Lavrov assuring consideration of the matter.

The meeting also addressed the Rohingya crisis, with Bangladesh seeking support for the safe, dignified and sustainable repatriation of displaced Rohingyas to Myanmar. Russia signalled its willingness to support efforts toward a long-term solution.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the Bangladeshi foreign minister invited Lavrov to visit Bangladesh at a mutually convenient time.