Australia looks forward to strengthen defence and economic cooperation with Bangladesh

Australia looks forward to strengthen the defence and economic cooperation with Bangladesh and eager to work towards the shared recovery from the unprecedented challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Australia and Bangladesh stand fast in our resolve to build a more secure, prosperous and inclusive Indo-Pacific,” said Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on the occasion of 50 years of diplomatic relations between Australia and Bangladesh on Monday.

On behalf of all Australians, he said he is delighted to send his warm greetings to the government and people of Bangladesh as they celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations.

“Australia is a long-standing friend of Bangladesh. Our enduring partnership extends back to our early recognition of Bangladesh’s independence and the opening of our mission in Dhaka on 31 January 1972,” said the Australian Prime Minister.

“Half a century on, our people continue to enjoy warm and friendly ties – built on mutual respect, community links and our shared democratic values.”

Of course, our people also have a love of sport; a passion that brings our competitive spirit to the fore most notably on the cricket field, he said.

“I am confident we are going to see this sporting rivalry develop further in the years ahead, as Bangladesh continue to make their mark in world cricket – and we look forward to welcoming Bangladesh to Australia for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup later this year,” reads the message.

Australia and Bangladesh stand fast in our resolve to build a more secure, prosperous and inclusive Indo-Pacific, Scott Morrison said adding “This year, we look forward to strengthening our defence and economic cooperation, and working towards our shared recovery from the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

He said the Australia-Bangladesh Trade and Investment Framework Arrangement will be important as they chart this course. “This agreement will energise and expand our business relationship, strengthening jobs and creating business opportunities in both countries.”

On behalf of the Australian Government, “I join with the people of Bangladesh in celebrating our special history and relationship. With such enormous goodwill between us, I hold much hope for the years ahead,” said the Australian Prime Minister in his message.