DHAKA : State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has called for greater Swedish investment in Bangladesh’s renewable energy, green technology, pharmaceuticals and engineering sectors as the two countries discussed expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, investment and sustainable development.

She made the call when Director and Head of Department for Asia, the Pacific Region and Latin America at the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs Daniel Wolven paid a courtesy call on her at the foreign ministry on Wednesday, said a foreign ministry’s press release here today. 

During the meeting, the State Minister described Sweden as a trusted and longstanding development partner of Bangladesh and appreciated its continued support for the country's socio-economic development, gender equality and climate resilience.

She highlighted various initiatives undertaken by the government, including measures to promote the creative economy and provisions in the FY2026-27 budget aimed at advancing women's empowerment and gender equality.

The two sides discussed ways to diversify and strengthen cooperation in trade and investment, telecommunications, technology, cybersecurity, skills development, human rights, people-to-people exchanges, climate change, and peace and security.

They also underscored the importance of concluding a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Bangladesh and the European Union to further boost bilateral trade.

The state minister encouraged increased Swedish investment in renewable energy, green technology, pharmaceuticals and engineering, identifying the sectors as key drivers of Bangladesh's sustainable economic growth.

The Swedish official congratulated the state minister on her appointment and assumption of office and reaffirmed Sweden's commitment to continuing its long-standing development cooperation with Bangladesh.

The state minister also sought Sweden's stronger support for achieving a durable solution to the Rohingya crisis, including ensuring the safe, voluntary and sustainable repatriation of the forcibly displaced Rohingyas to Myanmar.

The meeting also reviewed regional and global developments, with both sides emphasizing the importance of peace, stability and enhanced international cooperation.