Bangladesh, Brunei discuss stronger air connectivity, more jobs for workers

Dhaka: Bangladesh and Brunei have discussed stronger air connectivity and expanded recruitment of Bangladeshi workers as both countries moved to deepen bilateral economic cooperation.

The issues were discussed when Brunei High Commissioner to Bangladesh Haji Haris Bin Othman paid a courtesy call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on July 29.

According to a foreign ministry press release, the meeting focused on enhancing cooperation in manpower recruitment, trade and investment, energy, and air connectivity.

The state minister expressed Bangladesh's interest in facilitating the employment of more Bangladeshi workers in Brunei, highlighting the importance of expanding labor market opportunities for the country's overseas workforce.

On connectivity, both sides discussed improving air links between the two countries, a move expected to facilitate travel, business exchanges, and labor mobility.

To strengthen economic ties, Bangladesh proposed greater business-to-business engagement, closer collaboration between women entrepreneurs, and the establishment of a Bangladesh-Brunei Chamber of Commerce.

The state minister also sought wider market access in Brunei for Bangladeshi pharmaceuticals, jute products, agricultural goods, and mangoes.

The Brunei high commissioner welcomed the proposals and reaffirmed his country's commitment to expanding trade and investment cooperation with Bangladesh.

The two sides also agreed to establish a joint business group comprising business chambers, entrepreneurs, and investors from both countries to promote mutually beneficial trade, commerce, and investment.