Bangladesh, EU Aim to Finalize PCA Deal by 2026

Bangladesh and the European Union (EU) are aiming to conclude negotiations on a landmark Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) by 2026, following the successful launch of the first round of talks in Brussels.

Held at the EU headquarters on Thursday, the inaugural negotiation round covered a wide spectrum of issues, including trade and investment, governance, climate action, digital transformation, and connectivity. Both parties expressed a strong commitment to forging an "engaging and meaningful partnership" through a comprehensive and modern legal framework.

The PCA is designed to deepen cooperation across multifaceted sectors and guide future interactions between Bangladesh and the EU amid evolving global challenges. Once finalized, it will serve as the legal foundation for bilateral relations—one that is more aligned with contemporary global dynamics and mutual priorities.

According to the EU, the agreement will enhance collaboration in areas such as health, education, agriculture, migration, skills development, sustainable development, human rights, humanitarian action, counter-terrorism, and peace and security.

The negotiations also highlighted shared aspirations and strategic priorities. Notably, Ireland expressed support for Bangladesh’s smooth graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, signaling interest in strengthening bilateral and EU-level ties.

This first round of talks reflects a milestone in the relationship, positioning Bangladesh to become the first South Asian country to sign a PCA with the EU.

The Bangladesh delegation was led by Md Nazrul Islam, Secretary (East) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while Paola Pampaloni, Deputy Managing Director of the EU’s Asia and Pacific Division at the European External Action Service, led the EU side. Khandker Masudul Alam, Head of Mission of Bangladesh to the EU, also participated, alongside representatives from various ministries, divisions, and government agencies—both in person and virtually.

The next round of negotiations is expected to take place in Dhaka at a mutually convenient time.

Bangladesh and the EU launched their first political dialogue in November 2022 in Dhaka, marking a new phase of strategic cooperation. Their partnership, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023, continues to evolve into a more comprehensive engagement across thematic and regional priorities.