The Ambassador of Thailand to Bangladesh, Her Excellency Mrs. Thitiporn Chirasawadi, paid a maiden courtesy call on the Hon’ble State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ms. Shama Obaed Islam, MP, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today.
The Hon’ble State Minister congratulated the Ambassador on her appointment and appreciated her active engagement in strengthening Bangladesh–Thailand relations. The Ambassador reaffirmed her commitment to further deepening bilateral cooperation and noted that, beyond ASEAN, Bangladesh represents an important and growing market for Thailand given its strong economic growth.
Highlighting the cultural affinity between the two countries, the State Minister noted that Thailand remains a popular destination for Bangladeshi medical tourists. Both sides emphasized the importance of enhancing people-to-people exchanges and cultural cooperation.
The Ambassador underscored the importance of convening the 4th Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) between the two countries, which could be held after the formation of Thailand’s new Cabinet expected in April. Both sides noted that the consultations could pave the way for high-level visits during the year.
Trade and economic cooperation featured prominently in the discussions. The State Minister highlighted the importance of addressing tariff barriers affecting Bangladeshi exports, particularly ready-made garments, in order to promote balanced trade. Both sides also discussed ongoing discussions on a possible Free Trade Agreement.
The Ambassador highlighted ongoing cooperation in tourism and hospitality training and informed that a culinary promotion programme will be held at the Thai Ambassador’s Residence in late April. The State Minister proposed expanding cultural exchanges, including joint exhibitions and enhanced private sector engagement. The Ambassador also noted that a Thai trade exhibition is planned in Dhaka in July.
The State Minister highlighted the potential for expanding labour mobility and noted that Bangladesh could supply skilled manpower in sectors such as ICT in line with Thailand’s labour market needs. She also sought Thailand’s support for Bangladesh’s bid to become a Sectoral Dialogue Partner of ASEAN.
Both sides also discussed strengthening cooperation under BIMSTEC, including regional connectivity initiatives. The State Minister further sought Thailand’s continued support in addressing the Rohingya crisis, particularly for facilitating the safe and sustainable repatriation of displaced persons to Myanmar.
The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening the longstanding friendship and expanding cooperation between Bangladesh and Thailand.