Bangladesh and Australia have discussed expanding cooperation in telecommunications, information technology, scientific research and innovation, with Dhaka seeking to draw on Australia’s expertise in technology and workforce development.
Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam raised the prospects during a meeting with Australian High Commissioner Susan Ryle at the ICT Tower in Agargaon, Dhaka, on Thursday.
Anam, who also oversees the Ministry of Science and Technology, said closer institutional cooperation, knowledge-sharing and skilled workforce development were essential as technological change accelerated.
He identified Australia’s experience in these areas as a potential resource for Bangladesh and called for stronger links between relevant institutions in the two countries.
Ryle expressed Australia’s interest in expanding cooperation in information technology, science and innovation.
She also thanked Bangladesh for supporting Australia’s bid for re-election to the Council of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations agency responsible for international telecommunications cooperation.
The election is scheduled to take place during the ITU’s conference in Doha, Qatar, in November.
Both sides expressed interest in strengthening bilateral relations and pursuing cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
Australian High Commission First Secretary (Political) Harry Thompson attended the meeting.
The ministry did not announce any agreements, investment commitments or timetable for new joint initiatives.
