Dhaka: Bangladesh and the Maldives engaged in discussions on Sunday to explore avenues for strengthening bilateral relations through enhanced cooperation in several sectors, including migration and expatriate welfare, tourism, education, health, the blue economy, and maritime connectivity. A significant focus of the talks was the potential establishment of a direct shipping link to facilitate trade and improve connectivity between the two nations.

According to United News of Bangladesh, the discussions took place during a bilateral meeting between Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman and Maldivian Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam in Mal©. The meeting included exchanges of views on potential high-level visits and initiatives aimed at deepening ties between the countries.

Dr. Khalilur emphasized Bangladesh’s ‘Bangladesh First’ foreign policy, highlighting the importance of enhancing people-to-people connections between the two countries. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that such efforts are crucial for fostering a robust relationship.

The meeting was also attended by Maldives’ State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Fahmy Hassan, and Bangladesh High Commissioner to the Maldives, Dr. Md. Nazmul Islam, underscoring the shared commitment to further advance cooperative efforts.