Member missions of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Bangladesh have reiterated their steadfast dedication to enhancing long-standing bilateral relations with Dhaka, highlighting mutual economic and social potential across the region.

The commitment was underscored by ASEAN Dhaka Committee (ADC) Chairman and Malaysian High Commissioner Mohd Shuhada Othman on Monday evening during a reception in the capital celebrating ASEAN's 59th anniversary.

Speaking to diplomats and dignitaries, Othman highlighted the strategic significance of Bangladesh, noting, “We value Bangladesh as a close friend and an increasingly important partner in South Asia.”

Othman observed that both Bangladesh and the regional bloc possess complementary strengths capable of generating shared prosperity.

Pointing to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s decision to select Malaysia for his inaugural official state visit to an ASEAN member nation, the diplomat stated that the gesture demonstrated the high level of importance Bangladesh attaches to its broader regional engagement.

Highlighting the scope for expanded collaboration, Othman noted that ASEAN represents a dynamic economic zone of over 680 million people, while Bangladesh contributes a large, youthful demographic workforce.

“From trade and investment to education, culture, tourism and people-to-people exchanges, these efforts reflect both the warmth of our existing friendship and the immense potential for deeper cooperation,” he remarked.

Serving as the chief guest, Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid urged ASEAN member states to support Bangladesh’s ongoing bid to become a Sectoral Dialogue Partner of the bloc.

“We remain hopeful that ASEAN’s relations with Bangladesh will grow ever more meaningful, particularly with Bangladesh’s formal acceptance into the ASEAN family,” Rashid said, noting that the administration led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman places high priority on relations with ASEAN and its 11 constituent members.

Detailed initiatives are already underway to strengthen ties, including a fisheries and aquaculture project valued at nearly USD 0.5 million, alongside programs spanning tourism, information technology, MSMEs and cultural exchange.

Minister Rashid emphasized that centuries-old historical connections, cultural ties, robust trade, and vibrant interpersonal links provide a firm foundation for elevating Bangladesh-ASEAN relations.

The anniversary reception brought together heads of ASEAN diplomatic missions, foreign diplomats stationed in Dhaka, business leaders, media figures, and civil society representatives.