Online Desk:  Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to return to Bangladesh on Monday (April 29) after a productive six-day visit to Thailand, initiated at the invitation of her Thai counterpart, Srettha Thavisin. This visit, aimed at bolstering bilateral and multilateral ties, marks a significant step in the relationship between the two nations.

On April 24, Prime Minister Hasina was warmly welcomed at Don Mueang International Airport with a ceremonial 19-gun salute. Her visit included a mix of bilateral discussions and multilateral engagements, emphasising deepening cooperation across several sectors.

During her stay, the highlight was on April 26 when she met with Thai Prime Minister Thavisin at the Government House in Bangkok. The meeting was fruitful, resulting in the signing of five critical documents that promise enhanced collaboration. These included agreements on visa exemption for official passport holders, energy cooperation, mutual assistance in customs matters, tourism cooperation, and a Letter of Intent to kick-start negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by 2024.

Prime Minister Hasina also took the opportunity to address the 80th Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) on April 25. Her speech, delivered at the United Nations Conference Center in Bangkok, highlighted her vision for regional cooperation and development.

A personal highlight of the visit was on April 25, when Prime Minister Hasina met with the King and Queen of Thailand, Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshan, at the Amphorn Satharn Throne Hall in Dusit Palace. This courtesy call underscored the warm relations between the two countries.

Reflecting on the significance of her visit during an official luncheon hosted by Prime Minister Thavisin, Sheikh Hasina said, “This official visit will remain a milestone in our bilateral relations. It has ushered in a new era of fruitful partnership between our two countries.”

As Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina prepares to return home, the agreements signed and the discussions held during her visit are set to pave the way for a strengthened partnership between Bangladesh and Thailand, promising mutual benefits and enhanced cooperation in the years to come.