According to officials from Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while the visit is primarily a goodwill mission, the Indo-Pacific strategy will feature prominently on the agenda. Discussions will also cover key aspects of bilateral relations, including democratic transition, politics, economy, and fundamental human rights, along with contemporary global and regional issues.
As per the draft schedule, Catherine West is expected to pay a courtesy call on Chief Adviser of the interim government, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, and hold meetings with Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain. Additionally, she may engage with members of civil society and the media during her stay.
Catherine West assumed her role as UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific in July this year. Diplomatic sources reveal that her portfolio includes overseeing UK interests in China, Northeast Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands. She also focuses on economic security in the Indian Ocean region, particularly in areas like export controls, economic diplomacy, and the expansion and application of technology.
This visit is expected to further strengthen the longstanding ties between the UK and Bangladesh, with both sides keen to explore opportunities for deeper cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
