'Scopes are available to deepen Bangladesh–South Africa ties'

Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Professor Anil Sooklal, has said there is significant potential to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries, particularly in trade, investment, education, culture, and agriculture.

He made the remarks during an exchange of views with members of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday (July 31).

Sooklal said the existing ties between Bangladesh and South Africa have not reached their full potential, especially in the commercial sector. He identified a lack of market visibility and absence of a South African embassy in Dhaka as key barriers. Proposals are underway to address visa processing issues through an agreement between South Africa’s Delhi mission and VFS in Dhaka.

The High Commissioner emphasized the importance of holding Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) by the end of the year to review bilateral progress. He proposed that a Bangladeshi delegation, along with a small trade mission, visit South Africa during the upcoming FOC to finalise a chamber-level memorandum of understanding.

He said Bangladesh’s experience in agriculture and South Africa’s land resources could complement each other, offering strong prospects for joint investment. He also pointed to opportunities in the mining and minerals sector, where South Africa holds expertise.

Referring to the Bangladeshi diaspora in South Africa, estimated at around 400,000, Sooklal noted that they represent a major strength in the bilateral relationship. He acknowledged security concerns but said such incidents are isolated and addressed effectively by South African authorities.

Sooklal stressed the need to enhance people-to-people connections, including student and researcher exchanges, and greater cooperation between journalists and think tanks. He said

"Bangladesh and South Africa share a long-standing friendship rooted in common values of democracy and development, inspired by the legacy of Nelson Mandela," he said.