Bangladesh has called for increased Swedish investment in key sectors including renewable energy, green technology, pharmaceuticals, engineering, and telecommunications during recent discussions between senior officials from the two countries. The dialogue took place when Ambassador of Sweden to Bangladesh Nicolas Weeks paid a courtesy visit to State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir on Sunday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka.
The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on expanding economic engagement, particularly in light of Bangladesh’s upcoming graduation from the United Nations’ Least Developed Country (LDC) status and its implications for future trade relations with the European Union. Both sides explored ways to strengthen cooperation amidst changing global economic conditions.
State Minister Kobir described Sweden as a “trusted and longstanding partner” and expressed appreciation for Sweden’s support of Bangladesh’s socio-economic progress, democratic transition, and institutional development. Topics discussed extended to development assistance, trade and investment, migration governance, and climate change. The State Minister also acknowledged Sweden’s role in co-hosting a high-level event on integrating midwifery into primary health care during the recent UN General Assembly.
Migration was a significant area of focus in the talks, with both countries emphasizing the importance of promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration. Enhanced cooperation on skilled migration and vocational training was identified as a mutual priority.
The issue of the Rohingya crisis remained central to the discussion, with State Minister Kobir urging Sweden to support efforts aimed at achieving a durable solution. This includes the safe, voluntary, dignified, and sustainable repatriation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar. He also called for sustained international attention on the humanitarian situation.
Ambassador Weeks reaffirmed Sweden’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations and expressed readiness to increase collaboration in areas of mutual interest. He commended Bangladesh’s progress in democratic reforms and recognized the country’s ongoing humanitarian assistance to the Rohingya population.
The meeting signaled both countries' intent to enhance partnership across multiple sectors as Bangladesh positions itself for post-LDC status and continued socio-economic development.