Bangladesh and Tajikistan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Foreign Office Consultations (FOC), marking a significant step towards institutionalising regular diplomatic dialogue and strengthening bilateral relations.

The agreement was signed ahead of the inaugural Foreign Office Consultations held in Dhaka. Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Ambassador Asad Alam Siam and Tajikistan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Idibek Kalandar led their respective delegations.

Strengthening Political Engagement

During the consultations, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation across political, economic and regional priorities. They agreed to encourage reciprocal visits by their foreign ministers to sustain high-level engagement.

The two countries also discussed establishing a Bangladesh–Tajikistan Parliamentary Friendship Group. The initiative aims to promote regular interaction between lawmakers and strengthen parliamentary diplomacy.

Expanding Trade and Investment Cooperation

Economic cooperation featured prominently in the discussions. Both sides agreed to encourage greater private sector engagement and facilitate exchanges of business delegations. They noted that stronger business ties could unlock significant untapped economic potential.

Bangladesh highlighted its global competitiveness in ready-made garments (RMG), jute and jute products, and pharmaceuticals. It invited Tajik investors to explore opportunities in Bangladesh’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs).

Dhaka also proposed forming a Joint Working Group (JWG) on Trade and Economic Cooperation. It suggested signing an MoU between the apex chambers of commerce of both countries and organising an exploratory visit by a Tajik business delegation.

The discussions also covered cooperation in the mineral sector. Bangladesh expressed interest in Tajikistan’s expertise and reserves of gold, aluminium, zinc, copper, lead and silver.

People-to-People and Institutional Cooperation

Both countries explored ways to strengthen ties in education, sports, tourism and culture. They also discussed expanding exchanges of students, youth and cultural groups.

Bangladesh expressed interest in creating more employment opportunities for its skilled and semi-skilled workforce in Tajikistan.

The delegations agreed to expedite negotiations on several bilateral agreements. These include trade and economic cooperation, cultural exchange, visa waivers for diplomatic and official passport holders, tourism promotion, avoidance of double taxation, investment protection and industrial cooperation.

Regional and Multilateral Collaboration

Bangladesh and Tajikistan reaffirmed their commitment to closer coordination at regional and multilateral forums, including the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

Bangladesh thanked Tajikistan for supporting its candidature for the Presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

The two sides also exchanged views on regional and global developments. They underscored the importance of stronger connectivity between South and Central Asia to promote regional stability and economic cooperation.

Looking Ahead

Describing the inaugural Foreign Office Consultations as a milestone in bilateral relations, both delegations agreed that the meeting had laid a strong foundation for future engagement. They decided to hold the second round of consultations in Dushanbe at a mutually convenient date.

On the sidelines of the consultations, Bangladesh and Tajikistan signed a separate MoU between their diplomatic training institutes. The agreement was signed by Foreign Service Academy Rector Ambassador Muhammad Abdul Muhith and Tajik Deputy Foreign Minister Idibek Kalandar. The partnership aims to strengthen cooperation in diplomatic training and capacity building.