Dhaka, 20 January :
Foreign Minister Dr. A.K. Abdul Momen spoke with Indonesian Foreign Minister L P Marsudi.
In a phone call yesterday, the two Foreign Ministers expressed deep satisfaction at the existing bilateral
cooperation between the two countries and vowed to further strengthen the relations in depth and
dimensions.
Dr. Momen observed that Bangladesh has been enjoying brotherly and cordial relationship
with Indonesia since independence. Both the Ministers agreed to celebrate the 50 th year of the
diplomatic ties this year in a befitting manner.
Dr. Momen noted with satisfaction the rising trend in bilateral trade and commerce between
Bangladesh and Indonesia in recent years. In this connection, he emphasized on an expeditious
conclusion of the proposed Bilateral Preferential Trade Agreement for further enhancement of trade and
commerce between the two countries, preferably during this year that marks a watershed in the bilateral
relations between Bangladesh and Indonesia. He also stressed on reducing the imbalance existing in the
bilateral trade by increasing Indonesian imports from Bangladesh.
Bangladesh Foreign Minister thanked Indonesia for their humanitarian support extended to the
Rohingyas and sought political support on the repatriation issue. He requested for Indonesia’s and
ASEAN’s continued support in bringing about a sustainable and permanent solution to this protracted
crisis.
Dr. Momen further highlighted that Bangladesh wishes to have greater interaction with
ASEAN since there are vibrant trade relations with some members of ASEAN and the potential
synergy is evident. The Bangladesh Foreign Minister sought Indonesian support to Bangladesh’s
candidature for ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner.
The Indonesian Foreign Minister, while expressing her support for Bangladesh’s candidature,
suggested for fostering a greater engagement with the member countries of the ASEAN in this
regards.
