Ireland Backs Bangladesh’s LDC Graduation, Seeks Stronger Ties

Irish Ambassador to Bangladesh and India, Kevin Kelly, has reaffirmed Ireland’s support for Bangladesh’s graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category and expressed commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation under Ireland’s Asia-Pacific Strategy.

Speaking at a delayed but spirited celebration of St. Patrick’s Day 2025, held Thursday evening at the Renaissance Dhaka Gulshan Hotel, Ambassador Kelly highlighted the growing ties between the two countries. “Though we are slightly late in celebrating due to Ramadan, it makes us the last people on Earth to mark the occasion in 2025—and that’s historic,” he said.

He praised the energy and ambition of Ireland’s Honorary Consul in Bangladesh, Masud Jamil Khan, and reflected on the shared histories of Bangladesh and Ireland, particularly their respective struggles for peace and justice. “I hope our story through the Good Friday Agreement can offer hope to our friends in Bangladesh as they navigate their own transitions,” Kelly added.

The event was attended by diplomats, business leaders, cultural figures, and other dignitaries, including Information and Broadcasting Adviser Md Mahfuj Alam, EU Ambassador Michael Miller, British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke, and former Home Minister Altaf Hossain Chowdhury.

Reflecting on the consulate’s first year in Dhaka, Honorary Consul Masud Khan said bilateral engagement has grown significantly. “Since opening the Consul, our activities have increased manifold. The then foreign secretary visited Dublin and signed two MoUs—the first ever between our countries—paving the way for collaboration in trade, development, education, and culture.”

He also highlighted growing cultural exchange, noting the visit of the Irish women’s cricket team and upcoming art initiatives. “We’ll soon host an Irish painter and organise an exhibition of Irish art in Bangladesh,” he said.

Masud Khan also discussed humanitarian cooperation, especially Ireland’s long-standing support for the Rohingya crisis. “Ireland is providing free medical care in the camps and continues to show strong solidarity,” he said.

Trade ties have also flourished, with Bangladeshi exports to Ireland growing from just $6.89 million in 1995 to nearly $500 million in 2024. “Irish brands like Primark are investing in Bangladesh, creating jobs and strengthening RMG exports,” he added.

The event also featured remarks by Cosmos Foundation President Dr. Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, who commended the evolving partnership and Ireland’s global humanitarian role. “The Irish footprint in Bangladesh has expanded significantly under Masud’s leadership. As Bangladesh enters a new era, partnerships like this are key.”

Guests toasted to deepening ties between the two nations as the evening celebrated friendship, cooperation, and shared aspirations for the future.