Bangladesh and Algeria have discussed expanding cooperation in energy, trade, agriculture, fertilisers, textiles and education, with a particular focus on strengthening investment and securing energy supplies.
The discussions took place on Thursday during a bilateral meeting between Bangladesh State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir and Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf in Algiers. The two sides also exchanged views on regional and multilateral issues of mutual concern.
Referring to a recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) on hydrocarbon cooperation, Kobir said the agreement had opened new opportunities for Bangladesh to import liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and other petroleum products from Algeria under a government-to-government arrangement.
He said the agreement also provided scope for cooperation in refinery development, LNG infrastructure and the exploration of coal and gas fields in Bangladesh.
The Algerian Petroleum Institute expressed interest in providing training and knowledge-sharing programmes for Bangladeshi engineers and technicians to help develop domestic expertise in the energy sector.
Attaf said the Algerian President had instructed that the hydrocarbon agreement be signed on a priority basis in response to Bangladesh’s energy needs.
On agricultural cooperation, the Algerian foreign minister expressed his country’s willingness to help Bangladesh meet its fertiliser requirements and support agricultural production.
He also sought Bangladesh’s experience and expertise in reviving Algeria’s textile industry and expressed interest in expanding cooperation in pharmaceuticals, leather and textiles.
Both sides stressed the importance of holding regular Foreign Office Consultations, with the next round expected to take place in Dhaka soon.
They also discussed exchanging high-level visits to further strengthen bilateral relations.
