Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain today (April 3) underscored the importance of practical and outcome-driven cooperation among BIMSTEC member states, with a particular focus on accelerating intra-regional trade through the effective implementation of the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area (FTA).

He delivered the remarks while leading the Bangladesh delegation at the 20th BIMSTEC Ministerial Meeting, held in Bangkok, Thailand, according to a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Foreign ministers from all seven BIMSTEC member nations participated in the meeting, which precedes the Sixth BIMSTEC Summit scheduled for tomorrow.

Earlier in the day, the ministers signed the Agreement on BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Cooperation, marking a significant advancement in regional connectivity efforts.

In his address, Adviser Touhid Hossain reaffirmed Bangladesh’s dedication to promoting collective peace, progress, and prosperity under the shared vision of BIMSTEC. 

He also drew attention to the ongoing crisis of over 1.2 million Rohingyas currently sheltered in Bangladesh, urging the creation of a safe and conducive environment in Myanmar to facilitate their voluntary and secure repatriation.

During the session, the foreign ministers finalized both the draft Provisional Agenda and the Summit Declaration for the upcoming Sixth BIMSTEC Summit.

It was also agreed that Dhaka will host the 21st BIMSTEC Ministerial Meeting.

The meeting concluded with the adoption of the report of the 20th BIMSTEC Ministerial Meeting.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus is expected to represent Bangladesh at the Sixth BIMSTEC Summit of Heads of State and Government in Bangkok on Friday.

BDST: 1201 HRS, APR 03, 2025
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