Bangladesh, Maldives Vow to Boost Trade and Cooperation

Bangladesh, Maldives Vow to Boost Trade and CooperationBangladesh, Maldives Vow to Boost Trade and Cooperation

Bangladesh and the Maldives have reaffirmed their strong commitment to deepening the existing friendly relations and expanding bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, investment, education, and human resource development.

Dr Md Nazmul Islam, the newly appointed High Commissioner of Bangladesh to the Republic of Maldives, presented his Letter of Credence to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on 5 October at the President’s Office in Male.

Upon his arrival at the Republic Square of the Presidential Palace, the High Commissioner was accorded a guard of honour by a contingent of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). The ceremony was followed by a colourful Bodu Beru cultural performance.

After the ceremonial proceedings, Dr Nazmul Islam signed the visitors’ book at the President’s Office before formally presenting his credentials in the presence of the President, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and senior government officials.

During a cordial discussion following the ceremony, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu conveyed his sincere appreciation for Bangladesh’s continued cooperation in key areas such as human resource development, higher education, healthcare, and economic growth.

He underscored the importance of further strengthening people-to-people contact and expressed optimism that the excellent bilateral ties between the two countries will continue to flourish through enhanced trade and commercial engagements.

President Muizzu noted that Bangladesh’s growing role in the Maldivian economy—particularly through its skilled workforce and recent transshipment links—has further solidified the partnership between the two nations.

High Commissioner Dr Nazmul Islam thanked the Maldivian government for employing a large number of Bangladeshi migrant workers, who make valuable contributions to both economies.

Both sides expressed their determination to work closely in identifying new avenues of cooperation, including agriculture, defence, and education. They also discussed regional and international collaboration in areas of shared interest.

Dr Nazmul Islam conveyed the warm greetings of Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus, and extended an invitation for President Muizzu to visit Bangladesh at a mutually convenient time.

Diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and the Maldives were established on 22 September 1974, and the two nations continue to enjoy excellent ties rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and common aspirations for peace and prosperity.

Dr Md Nazmul Islam, a distinguished political scientist, academic, and parliamentary diplomat, brings extensive experience in international relations and soft power strategies. Before his appointment, he served with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye (TBMM), the US Department of State’s Foreign Service Institute (FSI), and as Head of Asia and Indo-Pacific Studies at Ankara Yildirim Beyazit University.

His diplomatic and academic background is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing Bangladesh–Maldives relations in a more strategic and dynamic manner in the coming years.