Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is set to visit Bangladesh in December to enhance economic cooperation and strengthen collaboration on migration issues. The announcement follows her meeting with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
During the meeting, the two leaders discussed mutual interests, including the pressing issue of safe migration. “The Italian Prime Minister expects to visit Bangladesh in December,” said Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam after the meeting. Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder was present at the briefing.
Prof Yunus emphasized the importance of tackling irregular migration flows and human trafficking, which has led to many Bangladeshis tragically losing their lives in the Mediterranean sea. Alam echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for safe migration measures to prevent further tragedies.
In addition to migration issues, the two leaders also discussed the potential for expanding trade relations between the countries. The Italian Prime Minister proposed the establishment of an Italy-Bangladesh Business Forum to further facilitate business exchanges and investment opportunities.
Meloni’s visit follows recent agreements between Bangladesh and Italy to combat transnational organized crimes such as human trafficking, migrant smuggling, terrorism, and cybercrime. Both nations agreed on the formation of a joint committee to enhance cooperation in these areas, which includes capacity-building and intelligence-sharing initiatives.
Meloni attended the UNGA from September 23 to 24 and also held bilateral meetings with the Presidents of South Korea and Paraguay.
