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Touhid Calls for Result-Oriented BIMSTEC FTA
Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain emphasized the need for tangible, result-oriented cooperation among BIMSTEC member states, particularly through the effective implementation of the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area (FTA) to boost intra-regional trade.
He made these remarks while leading the Bangladesh delegation at the 20th BIMSTEC Ministerial Meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, a day before the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, according to a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Foreign ministers from all seven BIMSTEC member countries attended the meeting. Earlier in the day, the ministers signed the Agreement on BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Cooperation, marking a significant step toward improving regional connectivity.
In his statement, Hossain reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to ensuring collective peace, progress, and prosperity through a shared BIMSTEC vision. He also raised the issue of the 1.2 million Rohingyas sheltered in Bangladesh, urging for the creation of a conducive environment in Myanmar for the safe return of the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals (FDMN), with their rights and security guaranteed.
During the meeting, the foreign ministers finalized the draft Provisional Agenda for the 6th BIMSTEC Summit and the Summit Declaration, which will be presented at the upcoming summit. The ministers also agreed to hold the 21st BIMSTEC Ministerial Meeting in Dhaka.
The meeting concluded with the adoption of the report of the 20th BIMSTEC Ministerial Meeting.
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus is set to attend the 6th BIMSTEC Summit of Heads of State/Governments in Bangkok on Friday.