Govt committed to taking Bangladesh-ASEAN ties to new heights: Minister

Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid on Monday reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to taking its longstanding historical, cultural and economic ties with ASEAN member states to new heights for mutual benefit.

“Bangladesh shares longstanding ties with ASEAN member states rooted in history, culture and mutual trust,” he said. “These bonds have grown stronger through land and maritime connectivity, robust people-to-people contacts and expanding trade relations.”

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The minister made the remarks as the chief guest at a reception organised by the ASEAN Dhaka Committee (ADC), comprising the heads of ASEAN diplomatic missions in Bangladesh, at Renaissance Dhaka Gulshan Hotel to mark the 59th ASEAN Day.

Highlighting the diplomatic priorities of the current administration, Amin Ur Rashid said the government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman attaches the highest importance to relations with all 11 ASEAN member states.

He noted that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman chose Malaysia as the destination for his first official foreign visit and expressed optimism that the visit would further strengthen bilateral and regional cooperation.

To institutionalise and sustain closer ties, Bangladesh has formally applied to become a Sectoral Dialogue Partner (SDP) of ASEAN, the minister said.

Highlighting sector-specific initiatives, he said his ministry is implementing a $1 million Bangladesh-ASEAN Cooperation Project on Fisheries and Aquaculture. He added that the two sides are also preparing joint initiatives in tourism, ICT and culture.

“ASEAN stands as one of the world’s most successful regional blocs. Formalising a closer association with the ASEAN family will make our relationship far more meaningful and multifaceted,” the minister said.

He sought the active support of ASEAN envoys in Bangladesh for the country’s bid to secure SDP status.

Chair of the ASEAN Dhaka Committee and Malaysian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Mohammad Shuhada Othman, Philippine Ambassador Neena Padilla Cinglet, other ASEAN heads of mission, senior government officials, diplomats, business leaders and civil society representatives attended the reception.

Guests enjoyed traditional Bangladeshi delicacies, including biryani prepared with indigenous Kalijira rice and dishes featuring the globally recognised Geographical Indication (GI) product, Black Bengal Goat, highlighting Bangladesh’s rich agricultural and culinary heritage.