BD Urges Australia to Ease Visa Process and Set Up Dhaka Facility

Bangladesh has called on Australia to simplify its visa procedures and establish a dedicated visa processing facility in Dhaka, as the two countries continue to experience steady growth in bilateral trade. The request was made on Thursday during a farewell meeting between Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin and Australia’s Acting High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Nardia Simpson.

Foreign Secretary Uddin praised Simpson for her efforts in strengthening the ties between Bangladesh and Australia, noting several significant milestones. He highlighted the successful completion of the 5th round of senior officials' talks and the joint working group meeting under the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA), as well as the recent visit by Australia's Home Minister, which further deepened bilateral relations.

Uddin emphasized the importance of maintaining regular dialogue within the established bilateral frameworks, ensuring continued collaboration on various fronts.

In her remarks, Simpson reaffirmed Australia's commitment to its partnership with Bangladesh, stressing the high priority the Australian government places on the relationship. She acknowledged Bangladesh's persistent efforts in combating human trafficking and expressed her intention to continue advocating for improvements in visa and consular services upon her return to Canberra.

The discussions also touched upon cooperation in education, skills development, and addressing the ongoing Rohingya crisis, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

As the meeting concluded, Foreign Secretary Uddin congratulated Simpson on the successful completion of her tenure in Bangladesh, extending his best wishes for her future endeavors.