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Bangladesh, Bhutan Optimistic About PTA Potential

Staff Correspondent; Diplomacy 2025-02-17, 12:26pm

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Bangladesh and Bhutan have expressed optimism about fully leveraging the potential of their Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), which aims to strengthen bilateral trade ties between the two nations.


This optimism was highlighted during a farewell meeting between Bhutanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Rinchen Kuentsyl and Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin at the State Guest House Padma. The meeting, as detailed in a foreign ministry press release, covered various aspects of Bangladesh-Bhutan relations, including trade, power, education, and cultural exchanges.

The discussion also focused on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed to establish a Bhutanese Special Economic Zone in Kurigram. Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin emphasized the special bond between the two nations, noting that Bhutan was the first country to recognize Bangladesh's independence. Over the years, bilateral relations have deepened, expanding cooperation in multiple areas, but Jashim highlighted that there remains significant untapped potential.

Ambassador Kuentsyl reaffirmed Bhutan's commitment to further strengthening ties with Bangladesh based on goodwill and shared interests. Both sides also acknowledged the importance of regional cooperation, particularly through SAARC and BIMSTEC, as avenues for further growth.

Following the meeting, Foreign Secretary Jashim hosted a farewell luncheon in honor of the outgoing ambassador.