DHAKA, 14 Sept, 2025 (BSS) – Bangladesh today sought support from Singapore to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) that provides a framework aimed at lowering trade barriers and securing improved market access for goods and services for businesses in the region.

The urge was made when Non-Resident High Commissioner of Singapore to Bangladesh Derek Loh Eu-Tse called on Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam at the foreign ministry here today, said a press release. 

The RCEP is the world's largest free trade agreement (FTA), launched in 2020 and entered into force in 2022, covering 15 Asia-Pacific countries, including China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and the 10 ASEAN member nations.

During the meeting, the foreign secretary and Singaporean envoy discussed the bilateral issues of mutual interest encompassing trade, investment, shipbuilding, sustainable energy, education, vocational training, medical tourism, and healthcare. 

The Foreign Secretary sought Singapore’s collaboration in waste-to-energy power generation in Bangladesh. 

High Commissioner Loh expressed interest to working on waste-to-energy power generation and further investment possibilities and operational partnerships in Bangladesh.

The foreign secretary also sought Singapore’s active support for the safe and dignified repatriation of Rohingyas, the Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals (FDMN) from Bangladesh.

Siam raised the visa complexities experienced by Bangladeshi seafarers, and the High Commissioner agreed to examine the visa difficulties faced by Bangladeshi seafarers.

The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment of Bangladesh and Singapore to advancing a multifaceted partnership, contributing to mutual prosperity and regional stability.