The first phase of talks on the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) between Bangladesh and the European Union (EU) began on Thursday (April 10, 2025) at the EU headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. The PCA aims to provide a comprehensive and robust framework for Bangladesh-EU relations, to guide future interactions in response to new global realities and emerging challenges, and to enhance cooperation in multifaceted areas.
Secretary (East) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Md. Nazrul Islam led the Bangladesh delegation as the chief negotiator in the first phase of talks, while the EU side was led by Paola Pampaloni, Deputy Managing Director of the Asia and Pacific Division of the European External Action Service. Head of Mission of Bangladesh to the EU Khandaker Masudul Alam was also present at the event. In addition, representatives of various ministries, departments, and agencies of the Bangladesh government joined the talks in person and online.
The first round of talks focused on a range of issues outlining mutual interests and aspirations for a more attractive and meaningful partnership between Bangladesh and the EU. Other topics included trade and investment, governance, climate action, digital transformation, connectivity, health, education, agriculture, migration, skills development, sustainable development, human rights, humanitarian action, terrorism, and peace and security.
Both sides agreed to continue engaging in constructive dialogue and work towards concluding the PCA negotiations by 2026. The next round of talks is expected to be held in Dhaka at a mutually convenient time.
The start of the first round highlighted the commitment of both sides to further enhance the partnership, with the aim of establishing Bangladesh as the first South Asian country to sign a PCA with the EU.
