Bangladesh and Brazil have recently inked a groundbreaking agreement aimed at harnessing each other’s strengths and resources for mutual technical cooperation and economic development.
During the visit of Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, a significant milestone was achieved with the signing of the Basic Agreement on Technical Cooperation (TCA) between the two nations. This historic agreement, signed after a bilateral meeting at the state guesthouse Jamuna, marks the first visit of a Brazilian foreign minister since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries in 1972.
Expressing gratitude for the visit, Dr. Hasan Mahmud, Bangladesh’s counterpart, emphasized the fruitful discussions held during the bilateral talks. Notably, Bangladesh highlighted the need for duty-free market access to Brazilian cotton for its ready-made garments, aiming to bolster trade relations between the two nations.
Addressing Bangladesh’s aspiration to join the BRICS group, the visiting foreign minister expressed support for Bangladesh’s candidacy. Brazil, currently presiding over the G-20, reaffirmed its solidarity with Bangladesh concerning the Rohingya crisis and extended an invitation for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to visit Brazil.
The joint statement issued after the visit emphasizes the importance of enhancing cooperation in various sectors such as agriculture, science, technology, and education. With the signing of the TCA, both nations have committed to leveraging each other’s strengths and resources to foster technical cooperation and economic development.
Furthermore, discussions were held regarding the MERCOSUR-Bangladesh Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), aiming to enhance business opportunities and promote private sector engagement. Both parties expressed their commitment to initiating negotiations for the PTA promptly.
Acknowledging the enduring bond between the peoples of Bangladesh and Brazil, both nations welcomed the conclusion of negotiations for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Sports Cooperation. Additionally, Brazil appreciated Bangladesh’s scholarship offers for Brazilian diplomats and extended invitations for Bangladesh’s participation in various G-20 working groups.
The visit also witnessed discussions on energy sector mitigation and a proposal to host a seminar on ethanol in Dhaka. The Brazilian minister’s itinerary included visits to notable sites in Dhaka, further strengthening cultural ties between the two nations.
Overall, the visit underscores the commitment of both Bangladesh and Brazil to deepen bilateral cooperation across various sectors, promising significant advancements in mutual interests and shared goals.
