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| Malaysia Welcomes Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman |
Written by Nurul Islam Asad
Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman received an official welcome from Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya during his two-day official visit to Malaysia. The visit marks Tarique Rahman’s first bilateral foreign trip since assuming office in February 2026, highlighting the importance both countries place on their long-standing diplomatic relationship.
A formal reception ceremony was held at Perdana Putra, the Prime Minister’s Office complex in Putrajaya. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman inspected a guard of honor comprising 105 personnel and three officers from the First Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment, led by Major Nur Ahmad Zaim Zahari. The ceremony reflected the significance Malaysia attaches to its relationship with Bangladesh.
In a statement, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed appreciation that Bangladesh chose Malaysia as the destination for its first official bilateral visit abroad under the new administration. He described the decision as a reflection of the enduring friendship, mutual trust and strong cooperation that have characterized Malaysia-Bangladesh relations for decades.
During bilateral talks, the two leaders discussed a wide range of issues, including trade and investment, labor mobility, semiconductor industry cooperation, energy security, agriculture, education and digital transformation. Both sides emphasized the need to expand economic partnerships and create new opportunities for business and investment between the two countries.
A key focus of the discussions was the recruitment of Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman urged Malaysia to further facilitate the entry of Bangladeshi workers into its labor market while also addressing issues related to undocumented migrants and the welfare of Bangladeshi citizens currently residing in the country. Malaysian leaders acknowledged the valuable contribution of Bangladeshi workers to the nation's economy and development.
The two governments also explored the possibility of advancing negotiations toward a future Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Several areas of cooperation were identified for further development, including cultural exchanges, skills development, higher education partnerships and investment promotion. Officials noted that bilateral trade has continued to grow steadily, creating a strong foundation for deeper economic engagement.
Observers believe the visit carries both symbolic and strategic importance. By selecting Malaysia for his first official bilateral visit abroad, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has signaled Bangladesh’s commitment to strengthening partnerships in Southeast Asia. With discussions covering labor, trade, investment and regional cooperation, the visit is expected to open a new chapter in Malaysia-Bangladesh relations and contribute to stronger economic and diplomatic ties in the years ahead.
Sources:
Office of the Prime Minister of Malaysia
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia (Wisma Putra)
Chief Adviser / Prime Minister's Office Bangladesh
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