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to develop our cooperation in various fields, especially in the defence industry,” Fidan said.

Defence cooperation between Bangladesh and Turkey has expanded in recent years, particularly in the purchase and joint production of military hardware.

The two countries also signed a memorandum of understanding on the protection of cultural property.

Khalilur thanked Turkey for supporting his candidature for the presidency of the UN General Assembly and proposed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or an interim Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between the two countries.

He also urged Turkish investors to take advantage of Bangladesh’s dedicated Special Economic Zones, citing opportunities in textiles, pharmaceuticals, shipbuilding, renewable energy and especially in defence manufacturing.

Khalilur proposed that Turkey establish an international-standard hospital and nursing institute in Dhaka.

On the Rohingya crisis, he said the safe, dignified and sustainable repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar remained Bangladesh’s top priority. Turkey pledged to keep the issue on the international agenda and continue supporting a permanent and fair solution.

Fidan also expressed deep concern over escalating instability in the Middle East and called for an end to Israeli aggression and the occupation in Lebanon to ensure regional peace. He said the conflict is negatively impacting the global economy and energy security.

“Establishing stability, security, peace and prosperity in our region is among the most fundamental priorities of Turkey’s foreign policy,” he said.

Fidan arrived in Dhaka on Thursday night and visited a Rohingya camp with Khalilur yesterday. He is scheduled to call on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today.

Khalilur’s first bilateral visit abroad as foreign minister was to Turkey on March 14. He returned in April to attend the Antalya Diplomacy Forum.