Thailand, Bangladesh discuss new shipping route to boost trade, connectivity
Dhaka: Thailand and Bangladesh have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral ties, with a strong focus on enhancing trade and maritime connectivity through a proposed new shipping route between Thailand’s Ranong and Bangladesh’s Chattogram ports.
The issue was discussed when Thitiporn Chirasawadi, Ambassador of Thailand to Bangladesh, paid a courtesy call on Dewan Hossne Ayub, Director General of the Southeast Asia Wing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, on February 8, said a statement from the Thai Embassy published on social media platforms.
During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on strengthening bilateral relations by leveraging existing cooperation mechanisms. Particular emphasis was placed on boosting trade and logistics connectivity, with the proposed Ranong–Chittagong shipping route seen as a key step toward facilitating faster and more cost-effective movement of goods between the two countries.
The discussions also touched on the possibility of a future Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which could further expand market access and economic cooperation. In addition, the two sides explored joint initiatives aimed at promoting people-to-people connections, including tourism, cultural exchanges, and business-to-business engagement.
Both Bangladesh and Thailand shared the view that they are important strategic partners for each other in the region. They expressed optimism that enhanced maritime connectivity and trade cooperation would open new opportunities for businesses and strengthen economic ties in the coming years.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of mutual commitment to work closely toward building a more robust, forward-looking partnership between the two countries.
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