European Union (EU) Ambassador to Bangladesh, Charles Whiteley, announced three positive developments for the country in a video message on Tuesday. The first is the finalization of the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) between Bangladesh and the EU, which will cover trade, investment, governance, human rights, energy, and climate change. Bangladesh becomes the first South Asian nation to reach such a comprehensive agreement with the EU.

The second announcement concerns the EU Election Observation Mission, which has already begun its work ahead of Bangladesh’s upcoming national elections. A 56-member long-term team is in place, and an additional 90 observers will arrive closer to election day. The mission will monitor voting across all 64 districts and present its findings after the election.

The third development involves an agreement between the EU, Canada, and Switzerland to increase funding for strengthening Bangladesh’s civil society. The initiative aims to enhance accountability and support reform efforts regardless of future political leadership.