Bangladesh's interim government foreign adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Sunday urged Austria to explore alternative measures for facilitating visas for Bangladeshi students and consider establishing a resident mission in Dhaka.
He raised the issue, noting that Bangladeshi students, aspiring to pursue higher studies in Austria, had faced visa-related challenges due to the absence of an Austrian resident mission in Bangladesh.
Touhid discussed the matter at a meeting with non-resident Austrian ambassador to Bangladesh Katharina Weiser at foreign ministry in Dhaka, said a press release.
In response, ambassador Weiser acknowledged the concerns and assured that Austria would explore a workable solution under Vienna鈥檚 directives.
The foreign adviser elaborated on the interim government鈥檚 ongoing efforts to reform Bangladesh鈥檚 socio-political and economic structures to establish a resilient democratic framework.
He emphasised that these initiatives required a reasonable timeframe for successful implementation.
Touhid also noted that the reports from the reform commissions were expected to be released in January 2025.
He also highlighted Bangladesh鈥檚 preparations for LDC graduation and efforts to qualify for the EU GSP+ preferential trade scheme.
The both sides discussed the development of clean energy technologies and climate change adaptation measures.
鈥楾he developed countries must fulfil their commitments to provide necessary funds for adaptation and mitigation, alongside their pledges,鈥� Touhid said.
Ambassador Weiser agreed, emphasising that the economic viability of green and climate-friendly technologies was essential for achieving sustainable solutions.
The envoy reiterated Austria鈥檚 commitment to exploring expanded bilateral economic engagements with Bangladesh in future.