Diplomatic Correspondent: The Chargé d`Affaires of the High Commission of Singapore to Bangladesh, Mr. Mitchel Lee, met with State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ms. Shama Obaed Islam, MP, on Wednesday to discuss ways to further strengthen bilateral relations.

During the meeting, Mr. Lee highlighted the strong people-to-people ties between the two countries and noted the positive reputation of Bangladeshi workers in Singapore. He also expressed Singapore`s interest in concluding the Bangladesh-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (BSFTA) at an early date and requested continued cooperation on the Bay Terminal project.

State Minister Islam emphasized the importance of expanding opportunities for Bangladeshi workers in Singapore, particularly in the ICT and digital infrastructure sectors. She also invited Singaporean investment in Bangladesh, highlighting the country`s business-friendly environment and policies.

Both sides discussed potential collaboration in the energy sector, including investment in waste-to-energy power plants and renewable energy initiatives in Bangladesh. Singapore also expressed interest in importing agro-products from Bangladesh, such as mangoes and seafood.

The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations for mutual benefit. Bangladesh is expected to host the next round of Foreign Office Consultations in Dhaka later this year.