Possible Trump-PM meeting on UNGA sidelines: State Minister

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir has said there is a possibility of a meeting between Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the upcoming UN General Assembly session in New York.

He made the remarks during an interaction with television journalists at a hotel in the capital on Saturday morning .

The state minister said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will attend the UN General Assembly session carrying the message of new Bangladesh's march forward. There is a possibility of a meeting with US President Donald Trump on the sidelines .

Humayun Kabir also spoke about the Prime Minister's potential visit to India, saying the date has not been finalised yet and discussions are ongoing.

Regarding relations with India, he said despite numerous issues with the neighbouring country, the channel of dialogue remains open. As a neighbour, it is important to maintain good relations with India .

On the energy sector crisis, the state minister said the Prime Minister is giving highest priority to this sector and the government is working sincerely to resolve the energy crisis.

On the possibility of Bangladesh joining the Makkah Agreement, Humayun Kabir said discussions are ongoing. It would not be unusual for Bangladesh to join. Currently, many countries are part of multiple security alliances. Bangladesh will go wherever necessary based on national interest .

Regarding the purchase of Boeing aircraft from the United States, he said the decision was based on Bangladesh's needs, not pressure. More aircraft may be purchased in the future if required.

On labour export to Malaysia, Humayun Kabir said the syndicate during the Awami League government's tenure had a negative impact on sending Bangladeshi workers there. The current government has dismantled that syndicate. Now labour export to Malaysia will resume in phases.

MP Emran Ahmed Chowdhury and BNP Central Co-Organising Secretary Miftah Siddiqui were also present.