Estonia keen on Bangladesh's IT workforce, bilateral trade and digital partnership growing

Estonia has expressed interest in expanding cooperation with Bangladesh in e-governance and digital technology. The European nation has also responded positively to the prospect of taking skilled manpower from Bangladesh in various sectors, including IT professionals, health workers and engineers.

The issues were discussed during the second Foreign Office Consultations between Bangladesh and Estonia, held in Tallinn on Monday, August 10. The Bangladesh side was led by Foreign Ministry's Bilateral Secretary Md Nazrul Islam, while Estonia was represented by Matti Muurde, head of its Asia and Pacific Division.

During the meeting, Estonia proposed providing technical assistance to Bangladesh in digital identity systems, secure data exchange, innovation and e-governance. The country's technology companies and investors are also keen to invest in Bangladesh and work jointly with local enterprises.

Both countries agreed to enhance cooperation in exporting skilled manpower. Discussions focused on creating opportunities for Bangladeshi workers in IT, caregiving, construction, hospitality, tourism, agriculture and agro-processing under the European Union's 'Talent Partnership' programme.

Bangladesh highlighted its capabilities in readymade garments, jute and jute products, and pharmaceuticals to boost trade and investment. Estonian investors were invited to invest in Bangladesh's special economic zones. Proposals were also made for memorandums of understanding between business organisations of the two countries and the formation of a joint working group on trade and economic cooperation.

Additionally, cooperation in education, research, culture, sports, tourism and student exchange was discussed. Both sides agreed to expedite the completion of agreements on double taxation avoidance, investment protection and industrial cooperation. Estonia also assured Bangladesh of its continued support on the Rohingya repatriation issue, alongside mutual cooperation at the UN and other international forums.