Bangladesh and Russia are working to significantly expand manpower cooperation, with Dhaka proposing to increase the number of Bangladeshi workers in Russia from nearly 10,000 at present to 100,000 within the next year.
Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman made the proposal during his ongoing three-day official visit to Russia, according to a Foreign Ministry press release.
The Russian authorities responded positively and agreed to work quickly on the proposal. Both sides are expected to complete the necessary formalities in the near future.
The proposed expansion of manpower exports emerged as one of the key outcomes of the discussions between the two countries.
Besides manpower cooperation, Bangladesh and Russia agreed that bilateral trade remains below its full potential and should be expanded further.
During the talks, Dr Rahman highlighted the prospects of increasing Bangladeshi exports to the Russian market, particularly ready-made garments and pharmaceutical products.
The Russian side welcomed Bangladesh’s proposal to send a business delegation to Russia in the coming weeks to explore new trade opportunities and strengthen commercial relations.
Cooperation in technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI), also received importance during the discussions.
The foreign minister proposed a visit by a Russian delegation to Bangladesh to share expertise on the use of AI in agriculture and healthcare. The proposal received an immediate positive response from the Russian side.
Russia also expressed interest in assisting Bangladesh in formulating its national AI policy and establishing centres of excellence in artificial intelligence.
Dr Khalilur Rahman is visiting Russia from June 7 to 9. He is accompanied by Prime Minister’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir.