KATHMANDU: As both Bangladesh and Nepal get ready to leave the Least Developed Country (LDC) category in 2026, they have emphasized the value of exchanging best practices and experiences. The goal of this collaboration is to guarantee a seamless, long-lasting, and unchangeable shift.

Tuesday afternoon, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus had a courtesy call from Ambassador to Bangladesh, Ghanshyam Bhandari, in Dhaka. Bhandari stressed during the meeting that in order to promote economic development, potential in trade, transit, and connectivity must be unlocked.

The talks centered on enhancing ties between Bangladesh and Nepal, particularly in the area of economy. Energy cooperation is crucial, and Bhandari described it as a "win-win enterprise" for both countries.

In order to improve sub-regional energy cooperation, Bhandari emphasized the projected export of 40 MW of hydroelectricity from Nepal to Bangladesh via Indian transmission lines.

Noting these as positive advances in their bilateral relationship, he expressed delight with the rising people-to-people contacts, educational links, and tourism exchanges between the two countries.

Chief Adviser Yunus also discussed the advantages of harnessing hydropower potential, namely its contribution to the goal of net zero emissions. He stressed the significance of implementing this partnership as soon as possible.

The Ambassador expressed gratitude to the government of Bangladesh for helping to guarantee the safety and security of Nepali citizens during the most recent protests, particularly students. He hoped that this kind of assistance would last.

During the meeting, topics like Nepal-Bangladesh cooperation in regional and international forums were also discussed, including reviving SAARC and BIMSTEC.

In addition to delivering a letter of congratulations from Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Ambassador Bhandari congratulated Chief Adviser Yunus on his appointment.

In a press release dated August 7, 2024, and in reference to the Prime Minister's letter, Bhandari reaffirmed Nepal's support for Bangladesh during its transition.

Chief Advisor Yunus acknowledged the two nations' ongoing strong and friendly relations on a political and interpersonal level, and expressed gratitude for Nepal's support and solidarity.