Dhaka, 16 November:

The visiting EU delegation highly commended Bangladesh’s socio-economic development over the last decade as well as the positive changes in the RMG sector. They expressed satisfaction at the constructive discussion they have had under 3+3 format with the Secretaries of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Labour and Employment.

The visiting EU EBA Mission, led by Paola Pampaloni, Director, Asia and Pacific, European External Action Service (EEAS), called on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md. Shahriar Alam, MP at the latter’s office on Wednesday (15 November 2023) afternoon.

The State Minister reiterated Bangladesh Government’s firm commitment to implementing the National Action Plan (NAP) on the labour sector of Bangladesh (2021-2026) amidst numerous constraints. Both sides appreciated the progress made so far while recognizing the need for further progress for obtaining GSP+ facility after expiry of EBA facility in 2029.

The two sides expressed satisfaction at the joint launching of negotiations on a new Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on 25 October 2023 in Brussels to expand and develop the multi-dimensional relationship between Bangladesh and the EU.

Both sides also shared their views on the Rohingya crisis, climate change, EU’s Global Gateway initiative and issues of regional and international mutual interest. Head of the EU Delegation to Bangladesh Ambassador Charles Whiteley also attended the meeting.