Netherlands Seeks Stronger Strategic, Economic Ties With Bangladesh

The Netherlands has expressed interest in strengthening its strategic partnership with Bangladesh over the next 50 years, with both sides seeking deeper cooperation in trade, investment and several key economic sectors.

Dutch Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation Sjoerd Sjoerdsma expressed the interest during a courtesy call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday.

The meeting was also attended by Dutch Ambassador to Bangladesh Joris van Bommel.

Sjoerdsma highlighted a planned maritime trade mission to Bangladesh, along with prospective visits focusing on textiles and water-related issues.

Bangladesh identified potential areas for cooperation, including shipbuilding, semiconductors and continued support for the country's apparel industry.

Both sides expressed interest in expanding economic ties through increased trade and investment, particularly in shipbuilding, maritime infrastructure, textiles, water management, semiconductors and agricultural supply chains, including cold-chain development.

The two dignitaries also noted that new governments had taken office in both countries in February 2026.

During the meeting, State Minister Humaiun Kobir sought Dutch support for Bangladesh's request to extend the transition period for its graduation from the least developed country (LDC) category. He also sought support for progress towards negotiations on a free trade agreement (FTA) between Bangladesh and the European Union (EU), highlighting the effects of recent global crises.

The two sides welcomed their longstanding cooperation in the water sector and discussed expanding technical collaboration in water and delta management, including canal excavation, amid the growing effects of climate change.

Kobir said water management was a priority for the Prime Minister.

They also discussed the Rohingya crisis and the importance of continued international engagement to achieve a durable solution.

The State Minister highlighted Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's aspiration for quality governance.

The discussions further covered migration and stronger cooperation in multilateral forums, including Bangladesh's presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, the pace of UN reform and other international issues.