Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina embarked on a six-day official visit to Thailand today (24 April) at the invitation of her Thai counterpart Srettha Thavisin, aiming to enhance bilateral relations between the two nations.
Accompanied by her entourage, the premier departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 10:13 am aboard a flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, according to the premier’s Speechwriter Md Nazrul Islam.
The aircraft is scheduled to land at Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok at 1:30 pm local time.
Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud, during a media briefing on Monday, highlighted the significance of the visit, stating that it would foster new avenues of cooperation between Bangladesh and Thailand.
This visit marks the premier’s first bilateral engagement since the formation of the current government in January.
During her visit, Sheikh Hasina will engage in bilateral discussions with Thai Prime Minister Thavisin and participate in the 80th Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP).
Several cooperation documents are set to be signed, including a letter of intent on negotiations for a free trade agreement, an agreement on visa exemption for official passport holders, and various Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering energy cooperation and tourism sector collaboration.
The visit will also provide an opportunity to explore the potential Free Trade Agreement between the two countries and address issues such as the Rohingya repatriation process and bilateral cooperation in investment, tourism, energy, and connectivity.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to receive a formal welcome from her Thai counterpart and engage in bilateral talks at the Government House. She will also attend a state lunch hosted by the Thai Prime Minister.
Additionally, the prime minister will have a Royal audience with Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshan, King and Queen of Thailand.
In her multilateral engagements, Sheikh Hasina will participate in the 80th Session of ESCAP and deliver a speech, focusing on leveraging digital innovation for sustainable development in Asia and the Pacific.
The session aims to facilitate region-wide cooperation in utilizing digital innovation to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda.
