Myanmar’s Ambassador to Bangladesh Kyaw Soe Moe said the verification process of the Rohingya lists submitted by Bangladesh is ongoing, and that initiatives will be taken to advance repatriation once the security situation and conditions on the ground become favourable.
The issue came up during a meeting on Sunday between Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir and Myanmar’s Ambassador to Bangladesh Kyaw Soe Moe at the Ministry of Commerce.
Alongside Rohingya repatriation, the two sides discussed expanding bilateral trade, strengthening shipping connectivity, and increasing mutual investment.
Both sides explored trade in agricultural and fisheries products, rice, pharmaceuticals and frozen food, while stressing stronger business‑to‑business (B2B) engagement.
The talks also covered boosting exports and imports, improving maritime transport, importing liquefied natural gas (LNG), and creating more opportunities for investment.
Muktadir said Bangladesh is committed to building ties with neighbours based on respect, trust and economic cooperation.
He noted that issues involving trade, transport, investment and border connectivity will be reviewed through inter‑ministerial coordination. He added that the geographical closeness of Bangladesh and Myanmar offers scope to significantly increase trade.
“Bangladesh and Myanmar will work together to make the economic relationship more meaningful and dynamic after resolving issues of mutual interest through dialogue,” he said.
Ambassador Kyaw Soe Moe expressed Myanmar’s interest in increasing trade and suggested resuming the long‑suspended border trade, even on a limited or temporary basis.
The Bangladesh side emphasised the need to create conditions conducive to early repatriation and called for effective and visible progress on the issue.
Both sides also agreed to hold regular institutional dialogues and meetings of the Joint Committee, and discussed holding the next joint meeting in Bangladesh.
Commerce Secretary Md Ataur Rahman Khan, Additional Secretary (FTA) Ayesha Akther, and Myanmar Embassy Counsellor Myat Lwin were also present at the meeting.
