Roundtable Discussion on “ASEAN-Bangladesh Relationship

The Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) organised a roundtable discussion titled “ASEAN–Bangladesh Relationship: A Way Forward” on Monday, 17 February 2025, at the BIISS Auditorium.

The roundtable explored the evolving dynamics of Bangladesh’s engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and examined opportunities for strengthening bilateral and regional cooperation. Discussions focused on trade and investment, connectivity, maritime cooperation, regional security, digital transformation, climate resilience, and people-to-people exchanges, highlighting the strategic importance of closer Bangladesh–ASEAN relations in the context of the changing Indo-Pacific geopolitical landscape.

The event brought together policymakers, diplomats, academicians, researchers, government officials, and eminent scholars, who exchanged views on the prospects and challenges of deepening Bangladesh’s partnership with ASEAN. Participants underscored the importance of enhancing economic integration, expanding institutional cooperation, promoting regional connectivity, and fostering collaboration in emerging sectors to advance shared prosperity, peace, and sustainable development.

The discussion concluded with a consensus that closer engagement with ASEAN would contribute to Bangladesh’s foreign policy objectives, support its economic growth ambitions, and reinforce its role as an active and constructive partner in the wider Asia-Pacific region.