Dhaka: Visa facilitation and migration management emerged as key priorities as Bangladesh and Malta reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral ties during a high-level meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

High Commissioner of Malta, Reuben Gauci, paid a courtesy call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, where both sides emphasized strengthening cooperation across several sectors, with particular focus on migration pathways and visa services, read a press release.

The state minister praised Malta’s streamlined visa services for Bangladeshi students and workers, noting that access from Dhaka significantly reduces both processing time and costs. The development is expected to ease legal migration and improve mobility opportunities for Bangladeshi nationals seeking education and employment in Europe.

Migration governance featured prominently in the discussions, with both countries expressing interest in expanding safe, orderly, and regular migration channels. The dialogue also touched on ensuring better protection and support systems for migrant workers, reflecting growing global attention to ethical recruitment and labor rights.

Beyond migration, the meeting explored avenues for cooperation in trade, education, and gender equality. Both sides also highlighted the importance of advancing discussions around a potential Free Trade Agreement with the European Union to boost economic engagement.

In the multilateral arena, Bangladesh sought Malta’s backing for its candidacy for the Presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly for the 2026–2027 term.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to fostering closer collaboration and addressing global challenges through enhanced international cooperation, with migration and mobility remaining central to the evolving partnership.