During the anticipated visit of Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Bangladesh on April 23 to 24, Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud disclosed that 11 bilateral instruments, comprising six agreements and five Memoranda of Understanding (MoU), are likely to be signed. These agreements aim to strengthen the friendly ties between Bangladesh and Qatar, marking the first high-level state visit from the Middle East since the formation of Bangladesh's current government.
The agreements cover various areas such as the avoidance of double taxation, legal cooperation, sea carriage, mutual investment promotion and protection, exchange of sentenced personnel, and the establishment of a joint business council. Additionally, the MoUs will focus on manpower, port management, higher education and scientific research, youth and sports cooperation, and diplomatic training.
Dr Hasan Mahmud emphasized that the visit is expected to enhance bilateral relations, especially in areas like energy cooperation, investment, trade, and employment opportunities. Discussions during the visit will also touch upon Bangladesh's proposal to supply fuel to Qatar, seek increased Qatari investment, and explore opportunities for importing leather goods, pharmaceutical products, and Ready Made Garments (RMG) from Bangladesh.
The Foreign Minister highlighted Bangladesh's interest in expanding cooperation with Qatar in various sectors such as aviation, agriculture, food security, and climate change. He underscored the deep and friendly relations between the two countries, dating back to Qatar's recognition of Bangladesh as a sovereign state in 1974.
As part of the visit, significant arrangements have been made, including the decoration of the capital's streets with portraits of the Qatar Emir alongside Bangladesh's President and Prime Minister. The Emir's itinerary includes a reception at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, meetings with President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, as well as engagements with business community members.
Furthermore, a road and park in the capital will be named after the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, symbolizing the enduring friendship between the two nations.
The visit concludes with the Emir's departure on April 24, marked by a special ceremony at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, where Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud will bid him farewell.
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