Diplomatic Desk:
Markus Leitner, Head of the Asia-Pacific Department and Assistant Foreign Secretary of the Swiss Foreign Ministry, has expressed his determination to further strengthen Switzerland’s long-standing friendly relations with Bangladesh.
He expressed this optimism during a courtesy call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday (June 2, 2026).
During the meeting, Markus Leitner expressed hope that the existing good relations between Bangladesh and Switzerland will be further expanded under the current government.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam appreciated Switzerland’s long-standing friendship and valuable cooperation in the socio-economic development of Bangladesh. During the meeting, both sides discussed expanding cooperation in the areas of trade and investment, skill development, education, information and communication technology (ICT), sports and culture, and increasing people-to-people contacts.
At that time, the State Minister for Foreign Affairs raised the issue of Bangladesh’s request to postpone its transition from the list of least developed countries (LDCs) and sought Switzerland’s support in this regard.
In the meeting, the Swiss delegation mentioned that the opening of the new embassy of Bangladesh in the Swiss capital Bern is an important step in deepening the bilateral relations between the two countries.
In addition, both sides reiterated their common commitment to democracy, multilateralism and international law. The meeting also exchanged views on the issue of sustainable and safe repatriation of Rohingyas.
At the end of the meeting, the two countries expressed their determination to further strengthen cooperation in various areas of mutual interest.
