Dhaka committed to take ties with Bhutan to new height: FM

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on Sunday shared Bangladesh's commitment to carry forward its relations with Bhutan to a new height after the two countries opened a new chapter by signing the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA).

"Signing this landmark PTA does not only emphasise our common priority of economic development, but also symbolises our mutual commitment to carry forward our bilateral relations to a new height," he said. 

Dr Momen said the two countries might have different ways and means but share a common goal - economic prosperity and social development.

Bangladesh-Bhutan bilateral trade to grow by 15% annually

He was addressing the signing ceremony of PTA from Bangladesh Foreign Service Academy when Bangladesh and Bhutan celebrate 50 years of relationship.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her Bhutanese counterpart Dr Lotay Tshering joined the significant event virtually. 

Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi, Bhutanese Foreign Minister Lyonpo Dr Tandi Dorji, Economic Affairs Minister Lyonpo Lonath Sharma and senior officials including the Foreign and Commerce Secretaries of Bangladesh also joined. 

Stronger regional, int'l cooperation needed to mitigate Covid's impact: PM

Dr Momen said they also revived history by choosing the date of December 6 for this programme, the very day when Bhutan, as the first foreign country, recognised Bangladesh in 1971 as an Independent and sovereign country. 

"We proudly recall that our Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman maintained excellent relations with the King of Bhutan Jigme Singe Wangchuk. Today, it is our humble attempt to reminisce their legacy, their vision and teachings," he said paying rich tribute to great and visionary forefathers.

Dr Momen said under the able leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Dr Lotay Tshering, the two countries have reached a level of cooperation which is admired by all.