Textile

Australia to boost funding to support Bangladesh's economic reforms

23 May '24
2 min read
Australia to boost funding to support Bangladesh's economic reforms
Pic: Adobe Stock

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During her visit, Australian foreign minister Penny Wong announced that Australia would increase economic assistance to aid Bangladesh’s economic reforms and its transition from Least Developed Country (LDC) status.

Speaking at a media briefing after her bilateral meeting with Bangladeshi counterpart Dr. Hasan Mahmud recently, Wong expressed Australia’s commitment to providing additional funding for deeper economic engagement through the Australian Trade agency.

Moreover, Australia pledged extra funds to assist Bangladesh in aligning its labour laws with the requirements for LDC graduation even as she highlighted the longstanding diplomatic relationship between the two countries, spanning over 50 years, emphasising the warm ties.

In discussions with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Wong highlighted shared regional interests in peace, stability, and prosperity even as she underscored Australia's recognition of the importance of upholding international rules and norms, as well as the need for deeper economic ties between the two nations.

Addressing practical cooperation, Wong confirmed additional Australian funding for technical education and training colleges in Bangladesh while emphasising collaborative approach to regional challenges, including climate change, maritime security, and the Rohingya crisis.

Wong noted the strong people-to-people links between Bangladesh and Australia, highlighting the contributions of Bangladeshi Australians, students, and the diaspora to Australian society.

In response, foreign minister Dr. Mahmud expressed gratitude for Australia's continued support and urged for increased Australian investment in Bangladesh.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DR)