Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh Nicolas Weeks paid a courtesy call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir at the Ministry today, congratulating him on his recent assumption of office and discussing ways to deepen Bangladesh‑Sweden relations.
Kobir described Sweden as a trusted and longstanding partner, noting its support for Bangladesh’s socio‑economic development, democratic transition and institutional strengthening.
The two officials reviewed a broad agenda that included development assistance, trade and investment opportunities, migration governance and climate‑change collaboration.
Both sides highlighted the potential to expand economic engagement, with Kobir urging greater Swedish investment in renewable energy, green technology, pharmaceuticals, engineering and telecommunications.
The discussion also touched on Bangladesh’s upcoming graduation from Least‑Developed Country status and prospective trade arrangements with the European Union, as well as Sweden’s co‑hosting of a high‑level midwifery event on the sidelines of UNGA‑81.
On migration, the parties stressed the need for safe, orderly and regular movement, promoting skilled migration and vocational training, while Kobir sought Sweden’s continued backing for a durable, voluntary and dignified repatriation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar.
Ambassador Weeks reaffirmed Sweden’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, praising Bangladesh’s democratic reforms and its humanitarian assistance to the Rohingya population.
The meeting concluded in a cordial atmosphere, with both sides expressing confidence that sustained engagement will further reinforce Bangladesh‑Sweden cooperation across regional and global fora.
Why it matters
The agreement deepens economic and humanitarian cooperation, supporting Bangladesh’s development goals and the Rohingya repatriation effort.