S Korea backs interim govt, reforms
Special Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Ambassador Lee Jeongkyu yesterday reaffirmed his country's support for Bangladesh's interim government and its reform efforts.
He extended South Korea's support to Bangladesh during a meeting with Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
He expressed satisfaction with the robust trade, investment, and economic ties between the two countries, highlighting that 150 Korean companies are operating in Bangladesh, with more seeking investment opportunities in key sectors.
The foreign secretary informed the special envoy about Bangladesh's ongoing reform initiatives following the July-August revolution to promote transparency and accountability.
The foreign secretary also mentioned the active role of the interim government in creating a conducive environment for organising the election to ensure a smooth transition of power.
He emphasised Bangladesh's interest in attracting Korean investment in agriculture, high-tech RMG, smart city development, and electronics.
Jashim Uddin stressed the importance of enhanced business-to-business and chamber-to-chamber engagements and urged swift progress on the Economic Partnership Agreement to strengthen bilateral trade and investment.
The special envoy praised the Bangladeshi workers for their contribution and hard work.
The foreign secretary praised ROK's employment permit system.
He also acknowledged the ROK's transformation into a developed nation, describing it as an inspiration for Bangladesh's development aspirations.
He also praised ROK's global soft power, including the cultural influence of K-Pop and K-Dramas, which continue to win hearts worldwide, including in Bangladesh.
The foreign secretary also thanked the ROK for being supportive of Bangladesh on the Rohingya issue, with the special envoy reaffirming Korea's support.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to advancing high-level engagements to deepen Bangladesh-ROK relations.