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Dhaka Seeks Russian Cooperation in Energy, Agriculture, and Trade
On Thursday, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus announced that Bangladesh intends to increase its imports of wheat and fertiliser from Russia and is eager to deepen collaboration with Russian energy giant Gazprom, particularly in offshore and onshore gas exploration.
The discussions took place during a meeting between Prof Yunus and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk on the sidelines of the Boao Forum for Asia Conference, held in the Chinese resort town. The two leaders explored a range of topics of mutual interest, including the operation of the Russian-funded Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, Gazprom's role in Bangladesh's energy sector, and Bangladesh's plans to boost imports of wheat and fertiliser from Russia.
Prof Yunus highlighted that financial arrangements for the Rooppur project had been successfully resolved, with Bangladesh making payments through a dedicated account in Dhaka, as confirmed by the Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary, Abul Kalam Azad Majumder. The plant, expected to begin trial power generation by the end of this year, is a key component in Bangladesh's strategy to enhance its energy security.
In addition to energy and agriculture, Overchuk underscored the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties, expressing Russia’s desire to see more Bangladeshi students pursue higher education in Russia. He also reiterated Russia’s commitment to increasing exports of wheat and fertiliser to Bangladesh to help ensure the country’s food security.
Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, Energy and Transport Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan, and High Representative to the Chief Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman also participated in the meeting.