The Emirates News Agency reported that Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, held the meeting with Sheikh Hasina during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Discussions focused on ways to enhance ties in trade, investment and energy while exploring opportunities in climate action and technology transfer. The two leaders also addressed regional stability and international matters of shared concern, with both sides affirming their commitment to multilateral frameworks.
According to the Emirates News Agency, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed highlighted the UAE’s interest in expanding partnerships with Bangladesh across priority areas that support sustainable growth. Sheikh Hasina outlined her government’s development priorities and invited greater Emirati participation in infrastructure and human capital initiatives. The exchange underscored the longstanding friendship between the two countries, which dates back to the UAE’s early recognition of Bangladesh’s independence.
Figures from the Consulate General of Bangladesh in Dubai show that two-way trade between the countries rose from $235 million in 2011 to more than $1.8 billion in 2023. The UAE has become the fifth-largest investor in Bangladesh, with cumulative investments surpassing Dh2.5 billion across various sectors. Trade data further indicate Bangladesh’s exports to the UAE reached $402.63 million in the 2023-2024 fiscal year, led by garments, jute goods and foodstuffs.
Public records from Bangladesh’s Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Overseas Employment place the UAE as the second-largest destination for Bangladeshi migrant workers after Saudi Arabia, with more than 2.1 million nationals having migrated there over the past two decades. The UAE remains a primary source of remittances for Bangladesh, contributing significantly to the national economy through steady flows from its expatriate community of roughly 1.2 million people. Officials from both sides have previously noted that this human dimension forms a vital pillar of their bilateral relationship.
A separate assessment by Bangladesh’s trade authorities projects that commerce with the UAE could exceed $5 billion within the next few years if current momentum in investment and market access continues. The meeting in New York aligns with ongoing diplomatic efforts to diversify economic links beyond traditional areas into renewable energy and advanced technology. Both governments have expressed readiness to follow up through joint working groups established under existing agreements.
