2nd Foreign Office Consultations Held in Tallinn; High Priority Placed on ICT, Trade, Investment, and Skilled Migration
Estonia Keen to Aid Bangladesh in E-Governance
Estonia has expressed strong interest in expanding bilateral cooperation with Bangladesh in e-governance, digital transformation, and the ICT sector. The consensus was reached during the 2nd Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) held between the two nations in Tallinn on Monday, August 10. Both sides committed to deepening political ties, accelerating trade and investment, and fostering tech-driven partnerships.
Dhaka, August 11, 2026: Estonia, one of the most digitally advanced countries in the world, has expressed special interest in increasing cooperation in Bangladesh's e-governance, digital transformation and information technology (ICT) sectors. The issue was a priority at the second round of Bangladesh-Estonia Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) held in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, on August 10 (Monday), sources said.
According to sources, the Bangladeshi delegation was led by Md. Nazrul Islam, Secretary (East & West) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while the Estonian side was headed by Mati Murd, Director General of the Asia and Pacific Division at the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Both nations emphasized solidifying bilateral diplomatic relations and exploring untapped economic avenues.
Primary Focus on ICT and Digital Synergies:
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) emerged as the cornerstone of the bilateral talks. Estonia pledged to support Bangladesh in advancing its e-governance systems, digital identity architecture (e-ID), secure data exchange networks, and innovation ecosystems. Estonian officials revealed that several of their leading digital technology firms and investors are eager to invest in Bangladesh and establish joint ventures with local tech enterprises.
Trade, Investment, and EU Talent Partnership:
To enhance commercial ties, the Bangladeshi delegation highlighted national capabilities in Readymade Garments (RMG), jute and jute goods, and pharmaceuticals, while inviting Estonian entrepreneurs to invest in Bangladesh’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs). Recommendations were put forward to form a Joint Working Group on trade, sign MoUs between apex trade bodies, and organize an exploratory Estonian trade mission to Bangladesh.
Furthermore, under the framework of the European Union’s 'Talent Partnership' program, both sides expressed a positive stance toward facilitating employment opportunities in Estonia for Bangladeshi IT specialists, engineers, healthcare workers, construction personnel, and hospitality professionals.
Political, Cultural, and Multilateral Cooperation:
The consultation addressed reciprocal ministerial visits, the formation of a Parliamentary Friendship Group, and institutional links in education, student exchange scholarships, sports, and cultural preservation. Both sides agreed to expedite pending bilateral agreements concerning double taxation avoidance, investment protection, and trade facilitation.
On global forums, including the UN, both countries agreed to support each other's candidacies. Estonia also reaffirmed its commitment to standing by Bangladesh in international arenas regarding the safe repatriation of Rohingya refugees.
Earlier, the Bangladesh delegation met with Karin Mandi, Acting Undersecretary for NATO and Transatlantic Relations at the Estonian Foreign Ministry, over a working lunch to discuss broader geopolitical and mutual security interests.
//DBTech/DPO/SME/OR//
