Politics
Dhaka welcomes Dutch interest in Teesta study and trade cooperation
Bangladesh and the Netherlands discussed a Teesta feasibility study, water management and possible EU trade cooperation. Dhaka welcomed Dutch technical expertise and sought help exploring an EU free-trade agreement. The meeting identified areas for cooperation without announcing a signed trade agreement or project-financing deal.
এই খবরটি আপাতত ইংরেজিতে পড়ুন
From 14 October 2026 — Daily Brief
Bangladesh has welcomed Dutch interest in studying the Teesta project and providing technical expertise, following talks between Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Dutch trade and development minister Sjoerd Sjoerdsma.
The delegation met the prime minister at the Secretariat on 13 October. Discussions covered water management, investment, renewable energy, agriculture and the possibility of closer trade relations with the European Union.
Dhaka sought the Netherlands’ cooperation in exploring an EU free-trade agreement. The meeting did not produce a signed agreement or establish a timetable for concluding one.
The two sides highlighted shared challenges as delta countries. Bangladesh expressed interest in Dutch experience with land reclamation, while Sjoerdsma supported exchanges on river management, developing river islands and climate adaptation.
The Teesta discussion concerned a feasibility study and technical support. It did not announce the start of construction or a completed financing package.
The Rohingya crisis also featured in the talks. Bangladesh reiterated its position that repatriation should be safe, voluntary and dignified, and that a durable solution must be found in Myanmar. Both sides discussed stronger diplomatic efforts to support that objective.