Establishing stronger ties with the European Union

It was encouraging to hear Charles Whiteley, outgoing head of the European Union (EU) delegation in Dhaka, note that the relationship between Bangladesh and the EU is maturing. At a time when Bangladesh is on the cusp of LDC graduation, with many development challenges to come over the next two decades, strengthening its ties with the EU is of paramount importance.

Ever since Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman nearly five decades ago in September 1974 said that Bangladesh would be a nation that emphasized “friendship to all and malice towards none” we have rightfully adopted it as our foreign policy stance. However, it is more important than ever to abide by these words; expanding relationships with nations and unions will be vital for our continued economic progress.

In the case of the EU, it is encouraging to see Ambassador Whiteley acknowledge the challenges Bangladesh will face after its graduation and transition period, and we hope that on our part, our authorities remain pro-active to ink a suitable deal to have duty free market access to the EU countries.

Bangladesh must also continue to strategize with the EU and others from the West on addressing some of its most pressing issues that have resulted from no fault of our own, namely, the Rohingya crisis and climate change. Bangladesh has earned the right to receive funds regarding both issues, and we hope that the EU does not shy away from continuing to provide assistance and a voice to combat these challenges.

Bangladesh’s ambitions over the next two decades are well documented. It is time we continue to build upon our relationships and ensure that those goals are attainable. 

Source: Dhaka Tribune.