News Flash
DHAKA, Mar 10, 2026 (BSS) – Trade and economic cooperation dominated talks between Bangladesh and Thailand today, with Dhaka urging removal of tariff barriers on Bangladeshi exports, particularly ready-made garments, while both sides also discussed progress towards a possible free trade agreement.
The issues came up when Thai Ambassador to Bangladesh Thitiporn Chirasawadi paid a maiden courtesy call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka, according to a foreign ministry’s press release.
Congratulating the envoy on her appointment, the state minister appreciated her efforts to further strengthen Bangladesh–Thailand bilateral relations.
The Thai ambassador reaffirmed her commitment to deepening cooperation and noted that Bangladesh represents an important and expanding market for Thailand beyond the ASEAN region due to its strong economic growth.
The meeting also highlighted the cultural affinity between the two countries, with the state minister noting that Thailand remains a popular destination for Bangladeshi medical tourists.
Both sides emphasised the need to enhance people-to-people exchanges and cultural cooperation.
The ambassador also stressed the importance of convening the 4th Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) between the two countries following the formation of Thailand’s new cabinet expected in April.
Officials said the consultations could pave the way for high-level bilateral visits later this year.
During the discussion on trade, the state minister stressed the importance of addressing tariff barriers affecting Bangladeshi exports to ensure balanced bilateral trade.
The two sides also discussed ongoing discussions on a possible Bangladesh–Thailand Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The ambassador highlighted ongoing cooperation in tourism and hospitality training and informed that a culinary promotion programme would be held at the Thai ambassador’s residence in late April.
She also noted that a Thai trade exhibition is scheduled to be held in Dhaka in July.
The state minister proposed expanding cultural cooperation through joint exhibitions and stronger private sector engagement.
She also highlighted Bangladesh’s potential to supply skilled manpower in sectors such as ICT in line with Thailand’s labour market needs.
The state minister further sought Thailand’s support for Bangladesh’s bid to become a Sectoral Dialogue Partner of ASEAN.
The meeting also discussed strengthening cooperation under the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), particularly in regional connectivity.
The state minister also sought Thailand’s continued support in addressing the Rohingya crisis, including facilitating the safe and sustainable repatriation of displaced Rohingyas to Myanmar.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Bangladesh and Thailand.
