Dhaka, 2 February :

The newly appointed High Commissioner of Malaysia in Bangladesh Haznah Md. Hashim yesterday called on Foreign Minister Dr. A K Abdul Momen, at the State Guest House, Padma. Welcoming the High Commissioner the Foreign Minister hoped that during her tenure in Dhaka, Bangladesh-Malaysia bilateral relations would reach to newer height through meaningful cooperation and collaboration in different areas of interest.
Dr. Momen mentioned that Bangladesh has been enjoying brotherly and cordial relationship with Malaysia since independence. He noted that Malaysia is important to Bangladesh on a wide range of issues such as overseas employment, higher education, science-technology, agro processing, trade, tourism, energy etc and foreign investment. He suggested that an investment delegation from Malaysia may visit the Economic Zones and Industrial Parks in Bangladesh to invest in Bangladesh, where investment friendly environment is prevailing. Dr. Momen requested Malaysia to finalize the Protocol amending the MoU between the Government of Malaysia and the Government of Bangladesh (G to G plus) on the employment of workers. He also requested to take back the stranded Bangladeshi workers who could not return to Malaysia due to Covid-19 lockdown. He appreciated the Government of Malaysia for allowing the workers to change employers and also for introducing the recalibration program under which illegal workers would have an opportunity to legalize.
The Malaysian High Commissioner acknowledged the immense contribution of Bangladeshi workers and professionals in Malaysian economy and society. She assured to take up the issue of worker’s return with her government. She was appreciative of the policy initiatives and social safety net programmes of Bangladesh in the face of prolonged pandemic. To expand trade, the High Commissioner hoped that the negotiations for Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will start soon.
Dr. Momen lauded the strong moral and political support of Malaysia in favour of Rohingyas and sought further support from both Malaysia and ASEAN for a durable solution to the Rohingya crisis. He requested Malaysia to continue the operation of the Field Hospital to the support of the Rohingyas even in a limited form.
The Bangladesh Foreign Minister sought Malaysian support to Bangladesh’s candidature for ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner.