Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud extends an invitation to Switzerland for investment in Bangladesh’s burgeoning IT and agro-processing sectors. During a meeting with Ambassador Reto Renggli on Monday, the foreign minister urged Switzerland to follow the European Union’s lead in extending Duty-Free Quota-Free (DFQF) trade preferences until 2029.
Addressing the ongoing Rohingya crisis, Dr Hasan Mahmud seeks Swiss assistance for the safe and swift repatriation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar, highlighting the need for international support in resolving this protracted issue.
Ambassador Reto Renggli commends Bangladesh’s impressive journey in value chain development since the 70s and explores potential collaborations in supply chain development, particularly through Switzerland’s food processing machinery industry.
Acknowledging recent border security issues, the Swiss ambassador reassures continued humanitarian support for the Rohingyas. The meeting also touches upon global conflicts, including those in Ukraine, Gaza, and the Red Sea, emphasizing their negative impacts on the economies of both Bangladesh and Switzerland.
Both parties express their satisfaction with the historic and robust relations between Bangladesh and Switzerland. Ambassador Renggli commends Bangladesh’s socio-economic development over the last decade and highlights the strong ties fostered through mutual visits, including the Swiss president’s visit to Bangladesh in 2018 and the Bangladesh prime minister’s visit to Switzerland in 2023.
Anticipating further advancements, the ambassador expresses hope for signing a bilateral air services agreement in March and scheduling Foreign Office Consultations in April. Switzerland continues to be a steadfast partner for Bangladesh, promoting values such as good business practices, multilateral cooperation, and a vibrant civil society. Stay tuned for updates on the evolving collaboration between Bangladesh and Switzerland.
