Mohammad Shajibul-Al-Rajib:
Gabriel María Sistiaga Ochoa de Chinchetru, the Spanish Ambassador to Bangladesh, has emphasized the need to further expand the existing friendly relations between Bangladesh and Spain, boost trade and investment, and strengthen cooperation in political, cultural, and aviation sectors, as well as in addressing climate change. He stated that Spain wishes to broaden its relationship with Bangladesh beyond mere economic cooperation to encompass various other sectors. In this regard, he expressed optimism that the Spanish government’s Asia-Pacific Strategy for the 2026–2029 period would help elevate the bilateral relationship to new heights.
The Ambassador made these remarks on Monday evening (October 12) at a reception hosted by the Spanish Embassy in Dhaka at the Grand Ballroom of the Sheraton Dhaka Hotel to mark Spain’s National Day. Abdul Awal Mintoo, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, attended the event as the chief guest. Diplomats from various countries, distinguished personalities, and invited guests also participated in the program.
In his address, Ambassador Gabriel María Sistiaga noted that Bangladesh and Spain have historically enjoyed good relations, with no history of conflict between the two nations. However, he stressed the need to expand cooperation into new areas to transform this cordial relationship into a more effective and multifaceted partnership. Highlighting that Spain is the fourth-largest destination for Bangladeshi exports, he affirmed Spain’s commitment to further expanding economic ties and enhancing cooperation across sectors such as politics, culture, aviation, and climate change.
Touching upon cooperation in the European aviation sector, the Ambassador welcomed the recent agreement between Biman Bangladesh Airlines and Airbus for the purchase of 10 aircraft. He described the deal as a significant milestone for Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Airbus, and the European aviation industry, noting that it would pave the way for closer cooperation in the future. The Ambassador also emphasized the importance of promoting the Spanish language and culture in Bangladesh. He expressed gratitude to Inditex and the University of Dhaka for their contributions to conducting Spanish language education programs through the Inditex Chair at the university. Highlighting various cultural activities organized by the Spanish Embassy, he noted that following the concert by Cantoría last April, a performance by Spanish pianist Álvaro Cantal has now been arranged. Additionally, plans are underway to organize another cultural event this coming December to mark Spain’s Constitution Day.
Regarding the recent political changes in Bangladesh, the Ambassador stated that the people of Bangladesh gave the BNP a massive majority in the general election held in February, which adhered to international standards. On the same day, the people also voted in favor of the July National Charter in a referendum. Referring to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s recent address at the UN General Assembly, he remarked that Bangladesh has once again embarked on a journey of progress. He expressed optimism that Spain would continue to support the realization of the Bangladeshi people’s aspirations during this critical period for the country.
The Ambassador also highlighted the contributions of the more than 60,000 Bangladeshi citizens living in Spain, noting that their daily efforts play a role in the economic and social development of both nations. Conveying his best wishes to the expatriate Bangladeshi community, he emphasized the importance of further strengthening the ties between the peoples of the two countries. He also expressed gratitude to the officials and staff of the Spanish Embassy, as well as partner organizations, for their contributions to the success of the event.
Meanwhile, speaking as the chief guest, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Abdul Awal Mintu conveyed warm National Day greetings to King Felipe VI, the government, and the people of Spain on behalf of the government and people of Bangladesh. He stated that since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1972, Bangladesh and Spain have maintained friendly ties based on mutual respect, peace, multilateralism, and a shared commitment to sustainable development.
The Minister added that the Government of Bangladesh is working towards strengthening democratic institutions, establishing an accountable governance system, ensuring the rule of law, and building an inclusive economy. He also expressed the hope of injecting new momentum into the existing cordial relations with European partners, including Spain.
Describing the Bangladeshi expatriate community in Spain as a vital bridge in the bilateral relationship, the Minister expressed gratitude to the Spanish government and people for welcoming them. Welcoming the Spanish government’s initiative to regularize the status of approximately 500,000 immigrants, he noted that around 20,000 Bangladeshi migrants are expected to benefit from this historic immigration reform program.
Regarding commercial relations, the Minister noted that Bangladesh’s exports to Spain reached approximately US$3.8 billion in the last fiscal year, making Spain one of Bangladesh’s key export destinations. However, to further advance bilateral ties, he emphasized the need to boost investment and cooperation in sectors such as renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, food processing, pharmaceuticals, information technology, and eco-friendly manufacturing. Reaffirming the commitment to fostering an investment-friendly environment in Bangladesh, the Minister invited Spanish entrepreneurs to explore new investment opportunities.
Highlighting the potential for cooperation in the environment and climate change sectors, Abdul Awal Mintoo stated that Spain’s expertise in clean energy, water management, and smart agriculture could play a vital role in building a climate-resilient future for Bangladesh. Citing government initiatives regarding pollution control, afforestation, forest conservation, and enhancing climate resilience, he expressed hope for joint ventures between the two nations in biodiversity conservation, sustainable water use, and the circular economy.
By underscoring the aspiration to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, culture, aviation, and environmental protection, the National Day reception highlighted new possibilities for the friendly relationship between Bangladesh and Spain.
