Bangladesh Seeks Stronger UK Partnership in Education and Trade
President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today urged the United Kingdom to increase cooperation in Bangladesh’s education and technology sectors. He also called for stronger business and investment ties between the two nations. The President made this request during a meeting with British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke at Bangabhaban.
High Commissioner Cooke delivered a congratulatory letter from King Charles III of the United Kingdom to President Alamgir. The King sent his greetings on President Alamgir taking office. President Alamgir thanked King Charles III for his message. He asked the British High Commissioner to convey his own greetings to the King.
President Alamgir sought more chances for Bangladeshi students to study in the UK. He asked for an increase in Commonwealth scholarships. The President also requested help to develop Bangladesh’s human resources. He wished to improve the capacity of educational and technology institutions.
President Alamgir noted that Bangladeshi citizens living in Britain help build strong ties between the two countries. He also mentioned Bangladesh’s close work with the UK as a Commonwealth member. They cooperate on developing Commonwealth countries and other common interests.
The President said Bangladesh has returned to democracy through fair and peaceful elections. He stressed the need to strengthen democratic institutions. He also spoke about improving the capacity of elected representatives. The President suggested regular visits and exchanges between parliamentarians from both countries. He highlighted the UK’s Westminster-style democracy as an example.
During the meeting, Sarah Cooke shared good news for Bangladesh’s trade. She announced that almost all Bangladeshi products will get duty-free access to the UK market for three more years. This includes readymade garments. This will happen even after Bangladesh moves out of the Least Developed Country category. President Alamgir called this a great chance to expand trade relations.
High Commissioner Cooke also informed the President about a new plan for digital climate data exchange. This initiative will help make weather forecasts more accurate. It will also help increase agricultural production by sharing climate information. President Alamgir expressed his satisfaction with this important initiative.
Other officials present at the meeting included the President’s Office Secretary, the Press Secretary, the British Deputy High Commissioner, and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
