Bangladesh has called upon Singapore to deepen its economic footprint in key sectors including energy, ICT, telecommunications, port and airport infrastructure, urban development, and agro-processing, identifying the island nation as a pivotal source of foreign direct investment (FDI).
Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin extended this invitation during a meeting with Singapore’s Foreign Minister, Vivian Balakrishnan, following the bilateral consultations held at the Foreign Secretary level on Monday (14 April).
Jashim Uddin placed particular emphasis on health sector cooperation, proposing joint initiatives in capacity building, expertise sharing, and the development of health infrastructure to meet the rising demand for quality medical services in Bangladesh.
The Foreign Secretary lauded Singapore’s global reputation for economic development, good governance and market-driven growth, noting its value as a model for countries across Asia, including Bangladesh. He also expressed appreciation for Singapore’s robust framework for managing migrant workers and extended gratitude for the care afforded to Bangladeshi expatriates contributing to both economies.
On trade, Jashim Uddin spotlighted the growing import potential of Bangladeshi goods in Singapore and beyond, naming pharmaceuticals, leather products, ready-made garments, ceramics, bicycles, home textiles and footwear as sectors ripe for expansion. He underlined the need to conclude the ongoing negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Singapore to boost bilateral commerce.
Addressing geopolitical concerns, the Foreign Secretary briefed Minister Balakrishnan in detail on the protracted Rohingya crisis. In response, Singapore reaffirmed its support for Bangladesh’s humanitarian efforts.
Regarding Bangladesh’s aspiration to become an ASEAN sectoral dialogue partner, the Singaporean Foreign Minister assured continued support, expressing hope that the two nations would remain aligned on regional and global matters of shared interest. Jashim Uddin, in turn, called on Singapore to actively support Dhaka’s bid within the ASEAN framework.
Looking ahead, the Foreign Secretary highlighted the importance of sustained political engagement, including high-level exchanges, to reinforce bilateral ties. He also extended an invitation for the Singaporean Foreign Minister to visit Bangladesh in the near future.
