Bangladesh flags visa-related difficulties with Austria

Bangladesh and Austria have discussed the need for developing clean energy technologies and climate change adaptability.

Bangladesh said developed countries should come forth with the committed necessary funds for adaptation and mitigation alongside their words.

The issues were discussed when non-resident Ambassador of Austria to Bangladesh Katharina Weiser met Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain and Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin separately at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday.

The Austrian Ambassador seconded that the economic viability of climate-friendly/green technologies would contribute towards a sustainable solution for all.

Ambassador Weiser reiterated the commitment to explore greater possibilities in advancing bilateral economic engagements in the coming days.

The Foreign Adviser flagged the issue of visa-related difficulties being faced by the Bangladeshi students aspiring to pursue higher studies in Austria.

He suggested exploring alternative options to facilitate the issue, while also considering opening a resident Mission. The Ambassador took note of the matter pursuant to a workable solution under the guidance from Vienna.

As raised by Ambassador Weiser, the Adviser shared that the interim government is working relentlessly towards breaking the pre-existing socio-politico-economic superstructure through putting in some essential safeguards to ensure a resilient democratic structure.

In doing so, the interim government needs a reasonable amount of time, Hossain said.

He mentioned that the reports of the reform commissions are expected to roll out in January 2025, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

At the same time, the Adviser shared that Bangladesh is already preparing for the LDC graduation as well as for EU GSP+ preferential trade scheme.

During her meeting with the Foreign Secretary, she discussed issues of bilateral, regional and global importance at length, and expressed satisfaction over the existing engagements between the two friendly countries.

The Foreign Secretary highlighted the interim government’s priorities and reform initiatives.

He particularly raised the visa related difficulties that Bangladeshi students have currently been facing.

As the Foreign Secretary suggested alternatives in this regard, the Ambassador assured of best possible consideration by the appropriate Austrian authority.

Both sides expressed hope to conclude bilateral instruments at an early date to promote migration and mobility, trade and investment between the two countries.

They also exchanged views on cooperation in culture, multilateral fora, and holding of political consultations on regular basis.