Denmark Backs Peaceful, Democratic Transition in BD

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Denmark has reaffirmed its steadfast support for Bangladesh’s interim government as it navigates its path toward a peaceful, democratic, and equitable future.

The commitment came during the third round of political consultations between the two countries, held in Dhaka on Monday. The Danish delegation praised Bangladesh's leadership in advancing climate action and emphasized continued cooperation under the bilateral Green Strategic Partnership Framework.

In a key outcome of the talks, both sides agreed to establish a joint trade and investment committee to unlock trade potential and accelerate bilateral investments, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The consultations were co-chaired by Md Abul Hasan Mridha, Director General (West Europe & EU) at Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ambassador Thomas Lund-Sorensen, Director General for Asia, Oceania, Latin America, and the Caribbean at Denmark’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Also present were Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Denmark, AKM Shahidul Karim, and Denmark’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, Christian Brix Møller.

During the meeting, both delegations reaffirmed the long-standing and friendly relations between the two nations, grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and common aspirations. They reviewed progress since the second round of consultations in May 2023 and discussed new opportunities for future engagement.

The wide-ranging discussions spanned political cooperation, trade and investment, development, climate change, maritime affairs, renewable energy, education, technology, and regional and global issues of mutual concern.

Bangladesh expressed gratitude for Denmark’s sustained development cooperation, particularly in governance, agriculture, climate resilience, and maritime affairs. Both sides agreed to explore expanded collaboration in water resource management, the blue economy, and green technologies.

They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral trade and investment ties, including through initiatives that enhance market access and support sustainable economic growth. Bangladesh also sought Denmark’s support in securing continued access to the EU’s GSP+ facility beyond 2029.

Cooperation in education and culture was also discussed, with both countries pledging to expand academic collaboration, scholarships, and cultural exchange programs to deepen people-to-people ties.

Denmark reiterated its ongoing humanitarian assistance for the forcibly displaced Rohingyas and host communities in Bangladesh and reaffirmed its support for a durable solution to the crisis, including the voluntary, safe, and dignified repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar.

The delegations also exchanged views on regional and global developments and reaffirmed their shared commitment to peace, stability, and regional cooperation.

In a significant gesture, Denmark announced an additional allocation of USD 5 million in support of Bangladesh’s democratic transition, following a formal request by the government.

Furthermore, Denmark expressed its intention to develop a new strategic sectoral partnership focused on the circular economy, particularly targeting sustainability in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector.

The two sides agreed to hold the next round of consultations in Copenhagen at a mutually convenient time.