(BSS) - Bangladesh and the European Union (EU) today discussed advancing trade ties, launching FTA negotiations and addressing the Rohingya crisis during a high-level meeting in Brussels, reaffirming commitment to a forward-looking partnership.

The discussion was held when Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman held a meeting with High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas, according to a message received here today.

The meeting covered a wide range of areas, including political, economic and development cooperation, with a focus on trade and investment, Indo-Pacific cooperation, migration, skills development and labour standards.

Both sides highlighted Bangladesh`s post-LDC transition and stressed the importance of continued preferential market access.

They also discussed initiating negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and an Investment Protection Agreement (IPA) to further strengthen economic engagement.

The two sides welcomed the new Bangladesh-EU Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) as a platform for enhancing cooperation and building a forward-looking partnership.

Foreign Affairs Adviser to the Prime Minister Humayun Kabir was also present at the meeting.