Australian FM Penny Wong coming to Dhaka to strengthen relations
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong is set to visit Bangladesh on May 21-22 to enhance bilateral ties and explore avenues for cooperation in regional peace, prosperity, and security.
Key topics expected to be discussed during her visit include trade and investment promotion, sustainable and renewable energy, the Rohingya crisis, maritime security, technology transfer, and maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Wong's itinerary includes a courtesy meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and a bilateral discussion with her Bangladeshi counterpart Hasan Mahmud.
The Australian delegation accompanying Wong includes Michelle Chan, Deputy Secretary of the South and Southeast Asia Group and Head of the Office of Southeast Asia in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
During her visit, Wong is also expected to visit the Rohingya camps to assess the situation. Bangladesh is seeking Australia's continued support in keeping the Rohingya issue prominent on the global stage, with the ultimate goal of repatriating the displaced Myanmar nationals currently in Bangladesh.
Australia has pledged ongoing humanitarian assistance for the Rohingyas and support for Bangladesh's repatriation efforts.
An Australian diplomat indicated that Wong's visit underscores Australia's growing interest in Bangladesh. Earlier this month, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his eagerness to collaborate with PM Hasina to fortify their bilateral relationship and jointly promote regional peace, prosperity, and security.
The two countries have already signed a framework agreement to expand trade and investment opportunities.
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