Malaysia pledges support for Bangladesh’s efforts to join RCEP

Malaysia on Monday voiced its support for Bangladesh’s ambition to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), acknowledging the country’s growing economic importance and strategic position in the region, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim agreed that Bangladesh’s eventual membership in the trade bloc would contribute to stronger regional economic integration, enhanced trade and investment flows, and more resilient supply chains.

Bangladesh welcomed Malaysia’s backing and reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling the necessary requirements for accession, a joint statement issued by the ministry said.

The two leaders also exchanged views on developments in the Middle East and reiterated their support for a just and lasting peace for the Palestinian people. They underscored the importance of continued dialogue and diplomatic engagement to achieve a durable and comprehensive settlement in the region.

They highlighted the need for closer cooperation in tackling both traditional and emerging security challenges, including climate change, food security, human trafficking, and transnational crime, stressing that such issues require comprehensive and coordinated responses.

Tarique and Anwar further recognised the value of collaboration within international platforms such as the United Nations (UN) and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and pledged to support initiatives aimed at strengthening the rules-based international order, justice, and adherence to international law.

The leaders also expressed concern over the protracted Rohingya crisis. Malaysia praised Bangladesh for its humanitarian role in sheltering forcibly displaced Rohingyas and reaffirmed its solidarity with Dhaka.

Kuala Lumpur reiterated its commitment to supporting efforts to secure a lasting solution through the safe, dignified, and sustainable repatriation of the displaced Rohingya population to Myanmar.

Bangladesh, in turn, thanked Malaysia for its continued support and principled advocacy on the Rohingya issue at bilateral, regional, and international forums, including ASEAN, the OIC, the UN, and other multilateral platforms.

During the discussions, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman reiterated Bangladesh’s keen interest in formalising its engagement with ASEAN by seeking Sectoral Dialogue Partner status.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim welcomed the initiative and affirmed Malaysia’s readiness to provide constructive support for Bangladesh’s aspirations within the ASEAN framework.

Tarique also conveyed his sincere appreciation to Anwar Ibrahim and the Malaysian government for the warm reception and generous hospitality extended to him and his delegation during the visit.