Bangladesh Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muqtadir met Myanmar Ambassador to Bangladesh Kyaw Soe Moe at the Commerce Ministry on Sunday to discuss expanding bilateral trade, reopening border commerce and repatriating Rohingya refugees. The meeting also covered increasing imports and exports, strengthening maritime transport links, LNG imports and expanding opportunities for mutual investment.

Muqtadir said Bangladesh is committed to strengthening ties with neighbouring countries through mutual respect, trust and economic cooperation. He said issues involving trade, transport, investment and border connectivity that concern other ministries would be reviewed through inter-ministerial coordination. The ambassador expressed interest in increasing bilateral trade and said reopening long-suspended border trade could benefit businesses and ordinary people in both countries, initially on a limited scale if necessary.

The sides discussed trade prospects for agricultural and fish products, rice, medicines and frozen food, along with stronger business-level contacts and business-to-business activities. Bangladesh stressed the need for conditions enabling rapid, safe, voluntary, sustainable and dignified Rohingya repatriation and for visible progress. Myanmar said verification of submitted repatriation lists was under way and action would be taken when conditions become favourable. Both sides agreed to hold regular institutional discussions and joint committee meetings, while emphasizing swift completion of an agreement on direct maritime connectivity.