On May 13, 2023, the second EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum took place in Stockholm, gathering representatives from 60 countries in the EU and the Indo-Pacific region. Co-chaired by Mr. Josep Borrell, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy / Vice-President of the European Commission, and Mr. Tobias Billström, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden, the Ministerial Forum aimed to foster new political momentum and enhance partnerships between the EU and the Indo-Pacific.
In attendance was Dr. Hasan Mahmud, Honorable Minister for Information and Broadcasting, representing the Government of Bangladesh. The forum served as a platform to discuss common challenges and opportunities related to sustainability, climate, security, trade, digitalization, energy, and the green transition. Aligning with Bangladesh’s outlook for the Indo-Pacific, the EU emphasized openness and inclusiveness as key principles in their approach to cooperation in the region.
The Stockholm Forum welcomed participants from the EU and its Member States, the European Investment Bank, 26 Indo-Pacific countries, and various regional organizations. Additionally, representatives from other countries were invited to participate in line with their respective Indo-Pacific strategies.
This significant gathering provided a renewed political impetus to strengthen partnerships between the EU and the Indo-Pacific. The Forum aimed to promote regional peace, security, stability and shared prosperity while shaping a collective vision for the future of the Indo-Pacific region.
Dr. Hasan Mahmud’s presence at the Ministerial Forum highlights Bangladesh’s commitment to active engagement in regional cooperation and underscores the importance of multilateral platforms in addressing pressing issues facing the Indo-Pacific.
The EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum in Stockholm marks a crucial step in forging stronger ties, fostering dialogue, and laying the foundation for collaborative efforts to address shared challenges and seize opportunities for sustainable development and growth in the region.
Bangladesh, along with other participating nations, remains dedicated to fostering an inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific, ensuring a future characterized by peace, stability, and mutual understanding among nations.
As the Forum concluded, the discussions and outcomes serve as a launching pad for further cooperation, paving the way for a collective and sustainable future in the Indo-Pacific region.
Hashan Mahmud led the Bangladesh delegation to Stockholm for the day-long session on Saturday. In addition, the Minister of Information met bilaterally with Belgium’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hadja Lahabib, the United Kingdom’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Lord Ahmed, and Portugal’s Secretary of State, Francisco Andre. Hasan Mahmud, also met Tobias Billström, Sweden’s Minister for Foreign Affairs.
Bangladesh and UK Discuss Multilateral Relations, Rohingya Repatriation, and Climate Change Cooperation
During a meeting between Hasan Mahmud, the Minister of Information of Bangladesh, and Lord Ahmed, the Minister of State for Middle East, South Asia, North Africa, and United Nations Affairs of the United Kingdom, various important topics were discussed.
One of the key issues addressed was the overall multilateral relations between Dhaka and London. Both sides emphasized the importance of fostering strong ties and enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
The Rohingya repatriation issue was also a focus of the discussion, with Lord Ahmed assuring Bangladesh of the UK’s continued support. He expressed the UK’s commitment to actively contribute to ensuring the sustainable return of the Rohingya to Myanmar.
Furthermore, the meeting shed special light on the cooperation between Bangladesh and the UK in dealing with climate change. Both parties expressed their willingness to work together to address the challenges posed by climate change and promote sustainable development.
Trade and investment were another significant aspect of the discussion, highlighting the potential for further collaboration in boosting bilateral trade and attracting investments between the two countries.
During the meeting, Lord Ahmed expressed his gratitude to Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for attending the historic inauguration of King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla. He also commended the remarkable economic development achieved by Bangladesh under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The meeting between Hasan Mahmud and Lord Ahmed demonstrated the commitment of both countries to strengthen their relationship, address humanitarian issues such as Rohingya repatriation, collaborate on climate change initiatives, and explore avenues for expanding trade and investment opportunities.
Portugal to Open Consular Mission in Dhaka, Easing Travel for Bangladeshis
During the meeting, Portuguese Secretary of State Francisco Andre expressed his government’s commitment to opening a consular mission in Dhaka within the next year. This initiative aims to facilitate travel for Bangladeshis to Portugal, streamlining consular services and enhancing bilateral ties. Information Minister Hasan Mahmud warmly welcomed this significant step towards strengthening cooperation between the two nations.
Secretary Francisco Andre also commended the hardworking attitude of Bangladeshi entrepreneurs in Portugal, acknowledging their valuable contributions to the local economy and their positive integration within Portuguese society.
Bangladesh and Belgium Strengthen Bilateral Ties, Discuss Rohingya Repatriation and Trade Expansion
During the bilateral meeting between Hasan Mahmud, the Minister of Information from Bangladesh, and Hadja Lahabib, the Foreign Minister of Belgium, the issue of Rohingya repatriation took center stage. The Belgian minister expressed sincere support for the repatriation efforts, highlighting the importance of addressing the humanitarian crisis. Both ministers engaged in constructive discussions on ways to facilitate the safe return of Rohingya refugees to their homeland.
In addition to the Rohingya issue, the meeting also focused on enhancing trade relations between Bangladesh and Belgium. Recognizing the potential for economic cooperation, the two ministers emphasized the need to increase bilateral trade and explore new avenues for collaboration. Strengthening economic ties between the two countries can pave the way for mutually beneficial partnerships and contribute to the growth of both economies.
Bangladesh and Sweden Forge Collaboration on Environment-Friendly Electricity and Information Technology
Hasan Mahmud, the Minister of Information from Bangladesh, and Tobias Billström, Sweden’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, held a productive meeting to discuss key areas of cooperation between the two nations. One of the primary topics addressed was the promotion of environmentally friendly electricity generation and consumption practices. Recognizing the importance of sustainable development, both ministers explored potential avenues for sharing expertise, technologies, and best practices in the field of renewable energy.
In addition to environmental concerns, Mahmud and Billström emphasized the significance of collaboration in the information and technology sector. Acknowledging the rapid advancements in the digital age, the ministers recognized the potential for mutual support and knowledge exchange in areas such as information technology, digital infrastructure, and cyber security. By leveraging each other’s strengths and expertise, Bangladesh and Sweden aim to enhance their technological capabilities and foster innovation in the digital sphere.
