Diplomatic Desk:
Bangladesh and Lithuania have agreed to strengthen bilateral ties by enhancing institutional cooperation, expanding trade and investment, fostering partnerships in the information technology sector, and facilitating the recruitment of skilled manpower. To this end, emphasis was placed on increasing regular diplomatic dialogues and high-level visits between the two nations, as well as expediting the finalization of bilateral agreements regarding cooperation across various sectors.
These matters were discussed during the second round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) between Bangladesh and Lithuania, held in Dhaka on Thursday (October 8, 2026). Ambassador Dr. M. Nazrul Islam, Secretary (Bilateral – East and West), led the Bangladesh delegation, while Vidmantas Verbickas, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, led the Lithuanian delegation.
At the outset of the consultations, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Foreign Office Consultations was signed by the heads of the respective delegations. Representatives from Bangladesh’s Ministry of Commerce, Invest Bangladesh, Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, and Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology participated in the proceedings.
The meeting reviewed the overall progress of bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Lithuania. Both nations emphasized revitalizing existing ties and deepening political engagement. Proposals were made to organize mutual high-level visits at various tiers, including at the Foreign Minister level.
Both sides agreed to enhance interaction between their private sectors and facilitate the exchange of business delegations to expand trade, investment, and economic cooperation.
The Lithuanian delegation was apprised of Bangladesh’s global standing and capabilities in key manufacturing sectors, including ready-made garments, jute and jute products, and the pharmaceutical industry. Additionally, Lithuanian investors were invited to explore investment opportunities within Bangladesh’s investment-friendly environment and Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
Emphasis was placed on the early finalization of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the apex business organizations of both countries. Bangladesh also extended an invitation for a fact-finding delegation from Lithuania’s private sector to visit and assess the market and investment opportunities in the country.
Key areas identified for cooperation during the meeting included Information and Communication Technology (ICT), digital governance, interoperability, electronic identity (e-ID) systems, secure data exchange, innovation, and business partnerships.
Lithuania expressed its readiness to assist in the development of Bangladesh’s e-governance system. Discussions also covered expanding cooperation in sectors such as e-registration, fintech, GovTech, cloud and data services, cybersecurity, digital transformation of transport systems, artificial intelligence (AI), modern technologies, high-tech medical equipment, the pharmaceutical industry, and biotechnology.
Highlighting his country’s capabilities in these specialized sectors, the Lithuanian Deputy Minister expressed a keen interest in strengthening cooperation with Bangladesh. He noted that, as a nation with a rapidly growing digital economy, Bangladesh offers significant potential for technology- and innovation-based partnerships.
It was further revealed during the meeting that several Lithuanian digital technology companies and investors are interested in exploring business opportunities in Bangladesh and collaborating with local firms.
The potential for recruiting skilled and semi-skilled manpower from Bangladesh to Lithuania was also highlighted. Bangladesh showcased its capacity regarding a growing pool of skilled professionals across various sectors, including IT specialists, engineers, electricians, plumbers, and healthcare professionals. Discussions were held on enhancing employment and the mobility of skilled manpower in sectors such as information technology, care services, construction, hospitality and tourism, agriculture, and agro-processing under the European Union’s (EU) Talent Partnership program.
Lithuania expressed optimism about expanding cooperation through regular and legal channels, alongside government-to-government (G2G) arrangements. Both nations emphasized the importance of facilitating safe and legal employment pathways for skilled workers.
Discussions also covered strengthening people-to-people ties and friendship through education, sports, tourism, cultural exchanges, and youth engagement.
The Lithuanian Deputy Minister noted that the number of Bangladeshi students in the country’s universities has more than quadrupled in recent years. Currently, approximately 1,200 Bangladeshi students are pursuing their studies at various universities in Lithuania.
He emphasized the importance of adhering to regular and legal procedures regarding student mobility and higher education. Concurrently, discussions were held on expanding tourism, exchanging cultural troupes, and creating employment opportunities for skilled and semi-skilled professionals between the two countries.
During the meeting, both nations agreed to expedite the finalization of several bilateral instruments concerning agriculture, trade and economic cooperation, cultural exchange, tourism promotion, investment development and protection, and industrial cooperation.
The implementation of this initiative could strengthen the institutional foundation of commercial relations while creating opportunities for new partnerships in the investment, tourism, and industrial sectors.
Both countries agreed to enhance coordination at regional and global levels and to maintain mutual cooperation in various international forums, including the United Nations.
Lithuania’s Deputy Minister congratulated Dr. Khalilur Rahman on his presidency of the 81st UN General Assembly and pledged support for the discharge of his duties.
Lithuania also expressed optimism regarding potential cooperation on issues of interest to Bangladesh, particularly in the context of Lithuania holding the European Union presidency from January to June 2027.
In addition to exchanging views on significant regional and global issues, Lithuania pledged to support Bangladesh in international forums regarding the repatriation of the Rohingya people.
Discussions also covered the potential to enhance inter-regional connectivity, stability, and cooperation by leveraging Lithuania’s geostrategic position in the Baltic region and Bangladesh’s location in South and Southeast Asia.
Both countries agreed to fittingly celebrate the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Lithuania in 2027. They expressed a commitment to highlighting the achievements of their bilateral ties and further strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation through these celebrations.
Delegations from both countries believe that this second round of Foreign Office Consultations has laid a strong foundation for expanding cooperation and partnership across various sectors in the future. A decision was also made to hold the third round of consultations in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, at a mutually convenient time.
Overall, this initiative by Bangladesh and Lithuania has created the potential to elevate their bilateral relationship beyond mere diplomatic contact into a multifaceted partnership encompassing trade, investment, technology, education, and employment.
