Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina embarked on a six-day official visit to Thailand on 24th April at the invitation of her Thai counterpart, Srettha Thavisin. This visit holds immense significance as it aims to bolster the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Thailand, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and collaboration between the two nations. The visit holds immense importance for both Bangladesh and Thailand, as it presents an opportunity to open new avenues of cooperation and collaboration.
In anticipation of this diplomatic mission, Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud emphasized its bilateral and multilateral significance during a media briefing.
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“Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to Thailand is significant for both countries as it will open new doors of cooperation,”
– Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud
stressed that the visit would not only foster closer ties between Bangladesh and Thailand but also pave the way for enhanced cooperation in various fields. This visit holds particular significance as it marks Prime Minister Hasina’s first bilateral visit since the formation of the current government in January this year.
Agenda and Collaborative Endeavors
During her stay in Thailand, Prime Minister Hasina is slated to engage in high-level bilateral talks with Prime Minister Thavisin, alongside her participation in the 80th Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). A series of cooperation documents, including a letter of intent on negotiations for a free trade agreement, are on the agenda. Additionally, agreements on visa exemptions, energy cooperation, and mutual cooperation in tourism and duty-related matters are expected to be signed, amplifying the spectrum of collaboration between the two nations.
Addressing Regional Challenges
Bangladesh’s aspirations to become a ‘Sectoral Dialogue Partner’ of the ASEAN will be reiterated during the visit, emphasizing the nation’s proactive stance towards regional engagement. Furthermore, the Rohingya repatriation process will be discussed, highlighting the imperative for concerted efforts amidst the prevailing political unrest in Myanmar.
Opportunities in Tourism and Beyond
Both Bangladesh and Thailand hold immense potential in the tourism sector, offering avenues for joint ventures and expertise exchange. Collaboration in tourism has the potential to catalyze economic growth and foster employment opportunities in both countries. Discussions will also encompass investment, energy, and connectivity, to maximize mutual benefits and shared prosperity.
“This cooperation in the tourism industry will create significant economic growth and employment opportunities in both countries,”
Dr. Hasan Mahmud
Foreign Minister
Bangladesh’s tourism sector is steadily gaining acclaim for its diverse attractions and cultural richness. According to data from the Bangladesh Tourism Board, the country offers a plethora of destinations, ranging from the tranquil beauty of the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest and habitat of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, to the ancient archaeological sites of Paharpur and Mahasthangarh. Additionally, Dhaka’s vibrant city life, with its bustling markets, historic landmarks, and diverse cuisine, entices visitors seeking an authentic urban experience.
Despite encountering challenges such as infrastructure limitations and visa complexities, Bangladesh has welcomed over 5.22 lakh foreign tourists in recent years, with this number steadily increasing. Ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, streamline visa processes, and promote cultural heritage aim to further bolster the tourism industry.
Key Agreements and Discussions
The two countries are set to sign several cooperation documents, including agreements on a free trade agreement, visa exemptions, energy cooperation, and
Guided by the theme of “Leveraging digital innovation for sustainable development in Asia and the Pacific,” this session aims to harness the power of technology to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across the region. It provides a platform for government leaders, ministers, and key stakeholders to deliberate on inclusive strategies for achieving the SDGs through digital innovation.
In addition to the potential FTA, both countries are exploring new avenues of cooperation in various sectors such as the blue economy, electronic vehicle assembly and ecosystem management, technical textiles, data-driven modern agriculture, light engineering, halal industry, value-added food processing, and policy support for SME industries in Bangladesh along with ESG compliance.
Bilateral trade between Thailand and Bangladesh amounted to $1.25 billion in 2022, a 2.5% decrease from 2021, with Thailand’s exports to Bangladesh valued at $1.17 billion, down by 4.95% from 2021. Imports from Bangladesh last year were worth $83.1 million, representing a 53% increase. During the first 10 months of 2022, bilateral trade between the countries amounted to $880 million, a drop of 19.2% year-on-year. Thailand’s exports to Bangladesh during this period tallied $799 million, down by 21.6%, while imports rose by 17.4% to $81 million.
Thailand is also keen to promote Thai brands in Bangladesh and is planning to organize the ‘Top Thai Brands 2024’ project in July. Both countries are optimistic that momentum will pick up for FTA talks, which were agreed in principle in January 2020 but have been limited due to the pandemic. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to Thailand underscores the commitment of both nations to deepen their bilateral relations, address shared challenges, and promote regional cooperation for sustainable development and mutual prosperity.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to Thailand epitomizes Bangladesh’s unwavering commitment to fostering regional cooperation, addressing shared challenges, and promoting sustainable development. As the curtains rise on this diplomatic odyssey, the prospects for enhanced bilateral relations and regional collaboration shine bright, paving the way for a more prosperous and interconnected future.
