Bangladesh Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muqtadir met Myanmar Ambassador to Bangladesh Kyaw Soe Moe at the Commerce Ministry on August 2. They discussed expanding bilateral trade, increasing imports and exports, strengthening maritime transport links, LNG imports and opportunities for mutual investment. The meeting also addressed the safe, voluntary, sustainable and dignified repatriation of forcibly displaced Rohingya people sheltering in Bangladesh.

Muqtadir said Bangladesh is committed to strengthening relations with neighbouring countries through mutual respect, trust and economic cooperation. He said matters involving trade, transport, investment and border connectivity that concern other ministries would be reviewed through inter-ministerial coordination. The ambassador expressed interest in raising trade volumes and said resuming long-suspended border trade could benefit businesses and people in both countries, possibly initially on a limited or temporary basis.

The sides exchanged views on trade in agricultural and fisheries products, rice, medicines and frozen food, while stressing stronger business-to-business contacts. Myanmar said verification of repatriation lists was continuing and that steps would be taken when security and field conditions allowed. Both sides supported regular institutional talks and joint committee meetings, and emphasized finalizing a proposed agreement on direct maritime and shipping links.