Bangladesh Seeks Closer ASEAN Engagement, Expresses Interest In RCEP

PUTRAJAYA, June 22 (Bernama) -- Bangladesh seeks closer engagement with ASEAN and aspires to become an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner, its prime minister, Tarique Rahman said. 

Speaking at a joint press conference with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim here today, Rahman said Bangladesh is also interested in joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). 

“I appreciate Malaysia’s support for Bangladesh’s regional integration efforts,” he said.

Earlier, both leaders witnessed the exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cultural Cooperation, as well as two Exchanges of Notes (EoN) in the fields of Counter-Terrorism Research and Investment Promotion and Facilitation.

Meanwhile, Tarique said Bangladesh looks forward to continued close cooperation on issues of shared interest with Malaysia.

He added that the signing and exchange of an MoU today would further strengthen ties and sustain positive momentum in relations between the two countries.

“We look forward to working closely together for shared prosperity, regional peace and a more inclusive international order,” he said.

Tarique also extended a personal invitation to Prime Minister Anwar and his spouse to visit Bangladesh, saying the people of Bangladesh would be honoured to host them.

In 2025, total trade between Malaysia and Bangladesh stood at RM12.18 billion (US$2.84 billion). Malaysia’s total exports to Bangladesh were valued at RM10.08 billion (US$2.35 billion), with petroleum products constituting the principal export. 

Imports from Bangladesh amounted to RM2.10 billion (US$500 million), comprising mainly textiles, apparel, and footwear.

Bangladesh is Malaysia’s 28th largest trading partner globally, with total trade amounting to RM12.18 billion, and its second-largest trading partner, export destination and source of imports in the South Asia region after India.

-- BERNAMA