Malta's High Commissioner to  Bangladesh Reuben Gauci met with State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam today at the Ministry of Foreign  Affairs. Photo: MoFA

DHAKA, April 1, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed 
Islam today lauded Malta for offering visa services for Bangladeshi students 
and workers from Dhaka, saying it saves time and costs while boosting people-
to-people connectivity.

The appreciation came during a meeting with Malta's High Commissioner to 
Bangladesh Reuben Gauci, who paid a courtesy call at the Ministry of Foreign 
Affairs here, said a foreign ministry's press release. 

The High Commissioner congratulated the State Minister on her appointment and 
expressed optimism about strengthening bilateral ties under the new 
government.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing cooperation in trade and 
commerce, education, gender equality and migration.

They also discussed enhancing political collaboration in bilateral and 
multilateral forums.

The State Minister sought Malta's support for Bangladesh's candidacy for the 
Presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly for the 
term 2026-2027.

Both sides underscored the importance of pursuing a Free Trade Agreement with 
the European Union to expand bilateral trade.

They further exchanged views on regional and global issues, emphasising the 
need for peace, stability and stronger international cooperation.