FTA: Dhaka, Bangkok plan to hold 6th JTC meeting soon

Bangladesh and Thailand have underscored the necessity of convening 6th Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting in Dhaka as soon as possible, highlighting that this would pave the way for Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, reports UNB.

The Thai side flagged that the trial run of direct coastal shipping between Ranong Port and Chattogram Port may take place soon.

The issues were discussed when Thai Ambassador to Bangladesh Makawadee Sumitmor called on Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin at the foreign ministry on Monday.

The foreign secretary expressed satisfaction over the activation of 'Visa Exemption Agreement' for Bangladesh official passports from mid-December 2024.

The Thai ambassador informed that Thailand will introduce E-visa service soon, where the applicants can apply online and receive e-visa electronically.

Sumitmor congratulated Jashim Uddin on his assumption of the office of the foreign secretary and reaffirmed Thailand's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties in the coming days.

The foreign secretary and the ambassador discussed the areas of mutual interest concerning trade and investment, coastal shipping, agro business, tourism and people to people contact.

The foreign secretary emphasised holding regular bilateral consultations and finalising pending bilateral instruments at the earliest.

Both expected that the BIMSTEC Summit would take place soon, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The foreign secretary sought Thai cooperation in sharing knowledge, innovation and expertise for promoting and branding Bangladeshi delicious cuisine.