Dhaka: Italy’s Undersecretary for Defence Matteo Perego di Cremnago has highlighted the Indo-Pacific as the new epicenter of global dynamics, expressing Italy’s eagerness to bolster relations with regional countries, including Bangladesh. This is seen as a strategic move to capitalize on Bangladesh’s economic growth and explore mutual avenues for development.

According to United News of Bangladesh, during a courtesy meeting at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka, the Deputy Minister expressed Italy’s full support for Bangladesh’s democratic transition and the July Charter. The Charter is aimed at implementing extensive reforms for the country’s democratic renewal. The meeting was attended by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, where discussions covered various topics, including trade, defense cooperation, migration, and the upcoming general elections and referendum on February 12.

The visiting minister praised the July Charter, emphasizing Italy’s endorsement of the reforms outlined in the document. He reiterated Rome’s support for Bangladesh’s democratic transition, particularly the February 12 vote. Chief Adviser Prof Yunus, who has longstanding ties with Italy, recalled his previous involvement in designing the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics as a social business event before taking on his interim leadership role in Bangladesh.

Prof Yunus underscored the significance of expanding legal migration to countries like Japan and Italy, which are experiencing rapidly aging populations. He also committed to ensuring a free, fair, transparent, and festive election on February 12, lauding the European Union for deploying a substantial team of election observers to oversee the polls.

The Chief Adviser expressed hope for a high voter turnout, highlighting that many young voters had been disenfranchised during what he termed ‘fake elections’ under a 16-year autocratic regime. He sought Italy’s continued support for Bangladesh’s democratic transition and enhanced cooperation in defense, trade, and investment.

The meeting was also attended by National Security Adviser Dr. Khalilur Rahman, SDGs Affairs Principal Coordinator Lamiya Morshed, and Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh Antonio Alessandro.