Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is poised to embark on an official visit to Brussels, Belgium, to participate in the inaugural gathering of the European Union’s Global Gateway Forum.
At Ursula von der Leyen’s request, the prime minister will attend the Global Gateway Forum in Brussels on October 25 and 26.
According to diplomatic sources in Dhaka and Brussels, her trip to Brussels will focus on three key priorities: formalizing an agreement for the Global Gateway Fund, which includes €395 million in loans and grants, discussing the future EU-Bangladesh relationship, and engaging with leaders from various European Union nations.
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This visit holds significant political importance in the run-up to the upcoming parliamentary elections, especially following the Prime Minister’s recent visits to New York and Washington in the United States. Both the European Union and the United States have consistently emphasized the importance of free, fair, and peaceful elections in Bangladesh.
Meanwhile, the European Parliament, in a resolution adopted last month, stressed the significance of addressing the human rights situation in Bangladesh and reiterated its call for creating a conducive environment for a free, fair, and inclusive 2024 election.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Hasina’s participation in the forum is crucial as it offers her an opportunity to articulate her government’s stance on promoting fair elections, ensuring good governance, and protecting human rights before European leaders.
Three Priorities in PM Hasina’s Brussels Trip
This will be Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s first-ever programme at the European Union and the European Commission. She has previously travelled to Brussels in 2010 and 2018 to attend conferences for some other forums.
Here are three essential priorities during her Brussels journey:
1. Joining the Global Gateway Fund (€395 Million Loan and Grant Agreement)
One of the primary objectives of Prime Minister Hasina’s trip to Brussels is to finalize an agreement with the EU to join the Global Gateway Fund.
2. Discussing the Future Relationship with the EU
Another crucial agenda item for Prime Minister Hasina is to engage in discussions regarding the roadmap for Bangladesh’s future relationship with the European Union. This transition in the bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and the EU is expected to be a key highlight of her meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The discussions may focus on the shift from a developmental cooperation phase to a more strategic cooperation phase.
In the framework of cooperation or partnership with the EU, human rights is a crucial concern.
3. Meeting with European Leaders and Addressing Key Issues
Prime Minister Hasina will also have the opportunity to meet leaders of several EU nations and address critical issues at the sideline of the Global Gateway Forum. These discussions are vital, considering the EU’s continuous emphasis on upholding fundamental human rights and the need for a conducive environment for free, fair, and inclusive elections.
A Boost for Green Energy in Bangladesh
The EU’s focus on green energy in Bangladesh is evident as the European Investment Bank (EIB) is set to provide a substantial financial boost.
They will lend €350 million in loans and €40 million in grants to Bangladesh, with the aim of accelerating the production of solar and wind power. This initiative is in line with the EU’s broader strategy of promoting clean and sustainable energy sources, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
The Global Gateway Forum
The Global Gateway Forum is being held under the theme “Stronger Together through Sustainable Investment.” It brings together over 40 high-level government representatives from the EU and partner countries, as well as financial institutions like the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). Additionally, leaders from 20 countries, including Bangladesh, Senegal, and Moldova, will participate. The forum aims to bolster smart, clean, and secure global connections in the digital, energy, and transport sectors while strengthening health, education, and research systems worldwide.
During the opening session, state leaders will engage in discussions on:
The following day, discussions will revolve around health product manufacturing and digital infrastructure, with European Commission Vice President Josep Borrell addressing the closing session.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Hasina’s Brussels trip is a diplomatic endeavour that holds significant importance in the context of strengthening Bangladesh’s ties with the European Union. The trip’s priorities encompass securing substantial funds for infrastructure development, discussing the future of the bilateral relationship, and addressing vital issues such as human rights, free and fair elections, and good governance. The trip is also an opportunity for Bangladesh to reinforce its commitment to green energy, aligning with global sustainability goals.
