Qatar Emir's Scheduled Visit to Bangladesh

Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani

Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani's upcoming visit to Bangladesh, scheduled for 22nd April, holds significant importance for bilateral relations between the two nations. The visit, expected to last two days, will encompass discussions on various areas of cooperation, including the energy sector, export of human resources, and trade and commerce. This report aims to provide an overview of the preparations and key agendas expected during the Emir's visit.

Preparations and Agreements

Diverse Agreements: Approximately 10 agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are set to be signed between Qatar and Bangladesh, covering areas such as fuel, export of human resources, trade and commerce, and defense cooperation.

Agreement Amendments: Notable agreements include amendments to the air service agreement, maritime transport services agreement, and agreements aimed at withdrawing double taxation. Additionally, provisions for cooperation in higher education, scientific research, and joint trade parishad are expected to be discussed.

Extradition MoU: Qatar has presented a draft of an MoU on extradition, although finalization may require additional time.

Port Management Proposal: Qatar's interest in managing activities at Chattogram port, expressed through Mwani Qatar, is under consideration pending approval from the Chattogram Port Authority.

Defense and Security Cooperation

Prior Agreements: Qatar and Bangladesh previously signed an MoU on defense cooperation in March of the preceding year, with discussions likely to focus on its implementation. This agreement involves the deployment of Bangladeshi defense forces in Qatar.

Coast Guard Cooperation: A MoU signed between Qatar and the Bangladesh coast guard is already in effect, with Bangladeshi coast guard members currently operating in Qatar.

Diplomatic Context

Historical Context: This visit marks the first by a Qatar Emir to Bangladesh in nearly two decades, signifying the significance of the diplomatic relationship between the two countries.

Neutral Position: Bangladesh's neutral stance during the 2017 diplomatic rift between Qatar and other Arab League members, particularly led by Saudi Arabia, strengthened bilateral ties. Despite pressure from Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh maintained a neutral stance, which was appreciated by Qatar.

Regional Significance: Qatar's status as a politically and economically influential country within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) underscores the significance of this visit in enhancing political cooperation between the two nations.

The forthcoming visit of Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Bangladesh signifies a pivotal moment in bilateral relations, with discussions expected to foster cooperation across various sectors. The agreements and discussions planned during the visit hold promise for strengthening economic ties and regional cooperation between Qatar and Bangladesh.