Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen has said Bangladesh may send a fact finding mission to Madagascar to discuss the possibilities of contract farming opportunities in the African island nation.
He made the remark while Madagascar Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ratsimandao Tahirimiakadaza called on him at the State Guest House Padma on Tuesday, a foreign ministry press release said on Wednesday.
Tahirimiakadaza was accompanied by official of Madagascar government who are participating at the 21st Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Council of Ministers and related meetings.
During the meeting, both sides agreed to establish cooperation in food and agriculture areas including cooperation in seed technology and agricultural production.
Dr Momen mentioned that Bangladesh has expertise in IT & ICT sector and the government is offering various types of digital services to the people.
He also suggested that both countries may establish cooperation in IT and ICT sector and Madagascar may import RMG and pharmaceutical products from Bangladesh.
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He also sought continued support of Madagascar on the Rohingya repatriation issue.
The Madagascar Permanent Secretary proposed that both countries may establish cooperation in blue economy including cooperation between maritime universities as well as that in extraction of marine nutrients. He said that Madagascar government is eager to establish cooperation in IT & ICT sector of the Bangladesh. He suggested establishing G2G cooperation with Bangladesh in IT and ICT areas.
The Permanent Secretary of Foreign Ministry of Madagascar mentioned that Madagascar and Bangladesh are working together at international platforms on matters of mutual interest. He commended the role of Bangladesh at IORA in protecting interest of the developing countries.
The Permanent Secretary assured of their continued support to Bangladesh on the Rohingya issue.
Bangladesh foreign minister also sought support of the Madagascar government in favour of the candidature of Bangladesh at the forthcoming IMO election as well as at Humans Right Council.
