Bangladesh, Sweden stress FTA with EU, stronger cooperation in trade and technology

Bangladesh and Sweden have underscored the importance of securing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) to further boost bilateral trade and economic cooperation.

The two countries also discussed ways to diversify and strengthen collaboration in trade and investment, telecommunications, technology, cybersecurity, skills development, human rights, people-to-people exchanges, climate change, and peace and security, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The discussions took place during a courtesy call by Daniel Wolvén, director and head of the Department for Asia, the Pacific Region and Latin America at Sweden’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam at the foreign ministry.

During the meeting, Shama Obaed described Sweden as a trusted and longstanding partner of Bangladesh and expressed appreciation for its support in the country’s socio-economic development, gender equality and climate resilience efforts.

She also highlighted several government initiatives, including measures to promote the creative economy and programmes aimed at women’s empowerment and gender equality incorporated into the FY2026-27 budget.

Wolvén reaffirmed Sweden’s commitment to continuing its development cooperation with Bangladesh, citing the longstanding ties between the two countries and the positive impact of their partnership.

The state minister encouraged greater Swedish investment in renewable energy, green technology, pharmaceuticals and engineering sectors.

She also sought Sweden’s enhanced support for a durable solution to the Rohingya crisis, including the safe, voluntary and sustainable repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar.

Earlier in the day, Wolvén met Md Nazrul Islam, secretary (East and West) at the foreign ministry, to discuss ways to further strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.