Turkey has expressed interest in expanding cooperation with Bangladesh in the defense industry and other strategic sectors. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced this at a joint press conference in Dhaka following a meeting with Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman. The two ministers discussed bilateral relations, international cooperation, and regional and global developments, agreeing to make their long-standing friendship more effective and comprehensive.

Fidan stated that trade between the two countries currently stands at about 1.3 billion dollars, with discussions held on raising it to 2 billion dollars. Both sides explored new opportunities for joint collaboration, particularly in defense. He also praised Bangladesh’s role in hosting over one million displaced Rohingya for nearly a decade and reaffirmed Turkey’s support for their safe and dignified repatriation. On regional issues, Fidan highlighted the impact of Middle East instability on global security and economy and welcomed progress in talks between Iran and the United States.

During the visit, Turkey and Bangladesh also signed a memorandum of understanding on cultural heritage preservation, further strengthening bilateral ties based on shared perspectives and historical bonds.