Mr. Tareq Md. Ariful Islam, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Sri Lanka, and Mr. G.L. Peiris, Foreign Minister of the Government of Sri Lanka, discussed bilateral cooperation between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka during Mr. Islam’s courtesy call to Mr. Peiris on 7 October 2021. They exchanged views on initiatives such as joint tourism ventures, trade expansion, and sharing intelligence in combating and countering terrorism within the region.

Mr. Peiris emphasized the importance Sri Lanka attaches to strengthening relations with Bangladesh especially in economic cooperation. He noted the potential for both countries to benefit from regional and international trade pacts through close collaboration, such as in the garments sector since Bangladesh is one of the world’s top manufacturers of high quality garments.

Mr. Islam underscored the importance of promoting bilateral cooperation in shipping and concluding the Preferential Trade Agreement at the earliest possible time to increase their bilateral trade.

Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are celebrating 50 years of establishment of diplomatic relations in 2022.

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Foreign Minister Peiris underscores the need to strengthen economic ties with Bangladesh