A gala dinner recognised the international medical teams that provided free cleft surgeries for children in Bangladesh.

Singapore Chargé d’Affaires in Bangladesh Mitchel Lee attended a gala dinner on 22 July in recognition of medical volunteers from several countries, including Singapore, who participated in Smile Asia’s 8th International Friendship Medical Mission in Dhaka.

The humanitarian mission was organised by Smile Asia in conjunction with SAJIDA Foundation and Government Employees Hospital, with the support of Dhaka Bank PLC. During the mission, medical teams performed 69 cleft lip and palate surgeries for children, according to the High Commission of the Republic of Singapore in Bangladesh.

The dinner was attended by Mr. Sardar Md. Shakhawat Husain, Honourable Minister of Health and Family Welfare of Bangladesh, Mr. Osman Ershad Faiz, Managing Director and CEO of Dhaka Bank PLC, Ms. Zahida Fizza Kabir, Chief Executive Officer of SAJIDA Foundation, Mr. Abhimanyu Talukdar, Secretary-General of Smile Asia, Chargé d’Affaires Mitchel Lee, and Mr. Md. A. Razzaque Sarkar, Director General of Government Employees Hospital.

Source: High Commission of the Republic of Singapore in Bangladesh, Dhaka Bank PLC

Singapore Foreign Minister Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan met Bangladesh Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Khalilur Rahman in Manila to reaffirm the longstanding friendship between the two countries and discuss opportunities to expand bilateral and regional cooperation. The meeting also included congratulations on Dr Rahman’s election as the 81st President of the United Nations General Assembly.

Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, met Bangladesh’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Khalilur Rahman, in Manila during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meetings, reaffirming the enduring partnership between Singapore and Bangladesh. Their discussions reflected the close and longstanding friendship shared by the two countries, built on mutual respect, common interests, and strong people-to-people ties.

The ministers explored ways to deepen bilateral cooperation across areas of shared interest while enhancing collaboration within ASEAN. They highlighted the importance of working together to unlock new opportunities for sustainable growth and economic development, not only for Bangladesh and Singapore but also across the wider Indian Ocean region.

The meeting underscored the growing significance of regional partnerships in addressing shared challenges and advancing prosperity. Both sides recognised the value of strengthening cooperation through ASEAN’s frameworks, reinforcing their commitment to regional stability, connectivity, and inclusive development.

During the meeting, Dr. Balakrishnan also congratulated Dr. Rahman on his election as the 81st President of the United Nations General Assembly. He conveyed his best wishes for Dr. Rahman’s upcoming tenure and expressed his anticipation of welcoming him to Singapore in the future, reflecting the warm and constructive relations between the two nations.

The discussions in Manila reaffirmed Singapore and Bangladesh’s shared commitment to expanding bilateral engagement while supporting multilateral cooperation. As both countries continue to work closely within regional and international platforms, the meeting highlighted their common vision for stronger partnerships that contribute to peace, development, and prosperity across Asia and beyond.

Source: Facebook (Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan)

The meeting explored opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation in education, trade and capacity building.

Singapore’s Chargé d’Affaires, Mitchel Lee, met the Adviser and Spokesperson at the Bangladesh Prime Minister’s Office, Mahdi Amin, to discuss cooperation in education and human resource development. Singapore welcomed the opportunity to share its experience, particularly in vocational education.

The discussion also reaffirmed Singapore’s continued interest in Bangladesh’s port and logistics sector, the aviation sector, including airport digitalisation, and the digitalisation of government services. Chargé d’Affaires Lee also updated on Singapore’s intention to conclude a bilateral Free Trade Agreement, collaborate on carbon credits and support capacity building for government officials.

According to the High Commission of the Republic of Singapore in Bangladesh, both sides described the meeting as constructive and looked forward to further interactions to deepen bilateral ties.

Source: High Commission of the Republic of Singapore in Bangladesh

Singapore Chargé d’Affaires and Bangladesh Finance and Planning Minister discussed trade, investment, digital cooperation, and climate collaboration.

Singapore Charge d’Affaires Mitchel Lee recently called on Bangladesh Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Chowdhury to discuss ongoing cooperation between Singapore and Bangladesh. The meeting covered trade and investment, infrastructure development, digital government services, carbon market collaboration, capacity building and people-to-people exchanges.

Charge d’Affaires Lee shared updates on ongoing discussions for a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA), Singapore’s interest in the development of the Bay Terminal in Chittagong, and digital solutions for government services. He also expressed Singapore’s interest in collaborating with Bangladesh’s carbon market under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

The High Commission of the Republic of Singapore said it looked forward to working closely with Minister Amir Khosru Chowdhury and his team to further deepen bilateral ties between Singapore and Bangladesh.

Source: High Commission of the Republic of Singapore in Bangladesh

The Bangladesh High Commission in Singapore convened a discussion with affected Bangladeshi workers on salary arrears, welfare support, and re-employment opportunities

The Bangladesh High Commission in Singapore convened a discussion on 10 July 2026 with affected Bangladeshi expatriate workers to address concerns relating to salary arrears, compensation, welfare support, and future employment plans. The session formed part of an exchange of views organised by the High Commission to better understand the workers’ challenges and coordinate assistance with relevant stakeholders.

During the discussion, the affected workers expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the various measures undertaken by the Singapore Government, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC), and the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC). These initiatives included efforts to facilitate the payment of salary arrears, provide housing arrangements, and create opportunities for re-employment.

The High Commission noted that, with the direct assistance of the Singapore Government, some migrant workers had already secured new employment, and efforts to facilitate further re-employment opportunities were ongoing. The Bangladesh Government remains closely aware of these developments and continues to monitor the situation with concern for the welfare of its nationals working in Singapore.

Source: Bangladesh High Commission, Singapore

The courtesy visit by Ms Nomita Dhar to the Bangladesh High Commission in Singapore highlights growing diplomatic, media and people-to-people engagement between the two nations

Further reflecting ongoing bilateral engagement, Ms Nomita Dhar, Editor-in-Chief of Sun Media, paid a courtesy call on Ms Luthfun Nahar, Charge d’Affaires (a.i.) of the Bangladesh High Commission in Singapore. The meeting underscored continued dialogue aimed at strengthening Singapore–Bangladesh relations across diplomatic and public engagement platforms.

During the discussion, both sides exchanged views on enhancing cooperation in diplomatic outreach, media collaboration and broader people-to-people exchanges. The engagement reflected a shared interest in fostering mutual understanding and supporting initiatives that contribute to deeper bilateral connectivity between the two countries.

Ms Nahar, who currently serves as Charge d’Affaires and Commercial Counsellor at the Bangladesh High Commission, outlined the mission’s ongoing efforts to advance diplomatic and economic ties. In her role, she facilitates trade discussions and promotes Bangladesh’s interests within Singapore’s business environment, while maintaining close institutional coordination with stakeholders.

This exchanges demonstrate the positive momentum in Singapore–Bangladesh relations, as both countries seek to build on political goodwill and expand cooperation across multiple sectors. Strengthened institutional dialogue and media engagement continue to complement formal

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong extends warm congratulations to Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tarique Rahman following a decisive electoral mandate, reaffirming strong bilateral ties.

Singapore has formally congratulated Bangladesh on the outcome of its general elections held on 12 February. Lawrence Wong conveyed his congratulations to Tarique Rahman after his party secured a decisive victory, reflecting the will of the Bangladeshi electorate.

In a congratulatory letter released by Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Prime Minister Wong noted that the strong mandate demonstrated the confidence and trust placed in Prime Minister Rahman by the people of Bangladesh. He expressed Singapore’s readiness to continue working closely with the Bangladeshi leadership to further advance bilateral relations.

Prime Minister Wong highlighted the warm and longstanding relationship between Singapore and Bangladesh, founded on mutual respect and robust people-to-people ties. Over the years, cooperation between the two countries has expanded across various sectors, contributing to shared economic growth and regional connectivity.

Looking ahead, he identified opportunities to deepen collaboration in trade and investment, port management, digitalisation and capacity building. He also reaffirmed Singapore’s continued support for Bangladesh’s development journey, underscoring a shared commitment to strengthening partnership and prosperity for both nations.

Singapore reaffirmed its longstanding friendship with Bangladesh and recognised the contributions of Bangladeshi mariners at the annual BMCS Night.

Singapore underscored its warm and longstanding friendship with Bangladesh at the Bangladesh Marine Community Singapore (BMCS) Night 2025, held in Singapore. The event brought together members of the Bangladeshi maritime community, industry partners and friends who contribute significantly to Singapore’s maritime sector.

In his remarks, Singapore highlighted the deep historical and people-centred ties between both maritime nations. Bangladesh’s strong pool of skilled and disciplined mariners was acknowledged as a key strength, with many contributing to Singapore’s port operations, shipping services and wider marine industries.

Image by: Singapore Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan

The gathering also served as an opportunity to recognise the BMCS for its ongoing efforts to support its members and strengthen community bonds. Singapore expressed appreciation to the organisation for fostering a spirit of professionalism, resilience and service among Bangladeshi mariners working in the country.

Beyond honouring the community, Singapore reiterated its confidence in Bangladesh’s long-term potential as a growing economy and regional partner. With shared interests in maritime cooperation, skills development and economic progress, Singapore affirmed its readiness to deepen collaboration as Bangladesh enters its next phase of growth.

The event concluded on a warm and positive note, reflecting the strong people-to-people ties that continue to anchor the bilateral relationship. Singapore expressed its well-wishes to the BMCS and the broader Bangladeshi community, emphasising the importance of continued partnership built on people, collaboration and shared potential.

Source: Singapore Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan

Singapore welcomes three new Heads of Mission, reaffirming its commitment to strong diplomatic relations and international cooperation.

Singapore, 29 July 2025 – In separate credential ceremonies held at the Istana, President Tharman Shanmugaratnam received the letters of credence from the newly appointed Heads of Mission representing the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, the Republic of El Salvador, and the Republic of Zimbabwe.

HER EXCELLENCY FERDOUSI SHAHRIAR
HIGH COMMISSIONER OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF BANGLADESH TO SINGAPORE

High Commissioner Ferdousi Shahriar is a career diplomat who joined the Bangladesh Foreign Service in January 1999. Prior to this, High Commissioner Shahriar served as Additional Foreign Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka. She was previously Director-General of the Ministry’s Myanmar Wing from 2023 to May 2025. Her earlier assignments include Director-General of the Americas Wing and Director in the Office of the Foreign Secretary.

High Commissioner Shahriar has also served in various overseas postings. These include Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Bangladesh in Washington, D.C., Assistant High Commissioner in Manchester and Counsellor at the Embassy of Bangladesh in Rome. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Dhaka and a Master’s degree in Diplomacy and Trade from Monash University in Australia.

HIS EXCELLENCY JAIME JOSÉ LÓPEZ BADíA
AMBASSADOR OF THE REPUBLIC OF EL SALVADOR TO SINGAPORE

Ambassador Jaime José López Badía most recently served as El Salvador’s Ambassador to the Republic of Korea (ROK), with concurrent accreditation to Malaysia and the Philippines. Ambassador López Badía’s diplomatic career began in 2005 and includes extensive responsibilities in consular affairs, bilateral cooperation, and trade promotion. He brings over 20 years of experience in public service, diplomacy, and Asian studies, having previously held senior postings in the ROK and Taiwan. 

Ambassador López Badía holds two Master’s degrees from leading Taiwanese institutions: an Executive Master’s in Asia-Pacific Political Studies from Tamkang University and an International MBA from National Chengchi University. He also holds a Bachelor’s in Economics and Business from the Superior School of Economics and Business in El Salvador, and has completed more than half a dozen specialised certifications in areas such as trade negotiations, regional integration, and investment promotion.

Throughout his career, Ambassador López Badía has played a pivotal role in negotiating economic agreements with Taiwan, the European Union, and the Caribbean Community. He has also represented El Salvador in multilateral trade forums including the World Trade Organization. Ambassador López Badía was born in San Salvador, El Salvador.

HIS EXCELLENCY MARTIN MAKURURU
AMBASSADOR OF THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE TO SINGAPORE

Ambassador Martin Makururu has been Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Indonesia since August 2024, with concurrent accreditation to Laos since July 2025. He was Director of Human Resources and Training in the Zimbabwe Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade from 2022 to 2024, and has been posted to Zimbabwe’s diplomatic missions in South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Namibia. During his career at the foreign ministry, he also held positions in the Protocol and Administration Departments, and on the Africa, America, Europe, and Pacific Desks.

Ambassador Makururu graduated from the University of Zimbabwe with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Economic History and obtained a Postgraduate Degree from the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators in London, United Kingdom.

Source: MFA

The High Commission of Bangladesh hosted a reception in Singapore, celebrating national progress with cultural performances and reaffirming strong bilateral ties.

Singapore, 16 May 2025 – The 55th Independence and National Day of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh was commemorated with a diplomatic reception in Singapore, hosted by His Excellency Dr Md Tauhedul Islam, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Singapore, and Mrs Islam. The event brought together dignitaries, members of parliament, the diplomatic corps, business leaders, and representatives of the Bangladeshi community.

The evening featured a colourful traditional dance performance, highlighting the cultural heritage of Bangladesh. In a symbolic and celebratory moment, H.E. Dr Islam and Mr Murali Pillai, Guest Speaker and Member of the Singapore Parliament, jointly cut a ceremonial cake, marking over five decades of independence and growing diplomatic friendship.

In his address, Mr Pillai reflected on Bangladesh’s dynamic development since gaining independence in 1971. He praised the country’s rapid economic strides, noting its GDP growth of 5.8% in 2023, and its strategic vision to graduate from Least Developed Country status by 2026, become an upper-middle-income country by 2031, and a developed nation by 2041.

“It is truly an honour to celebrate Bangladesh’s 55th Independence and National Day with all of you,” said Mr Murali Pillai. “As fellow young nations, Singapore and Bangladesh share a relationship grounded in mutual trust, respect, and a shared aspiration for progress. Our cooperation continues to expand across key sectors, and I am confident this partnership will only grow stronger in the years ahead.”

Singapore was the first Southeast Asian nation to establish diplomatic ties with Bangladesh in February 1972. Mr Pillai underlined the maturing bilateral relationship, which now encompasses trade, investment, digital innovation, renewable energy, and urban development.

Singapore-based firms invested S$1.86 billion in Bangladesh in 2022, with total bilateral trade in goods reaching S$4.3 billion in 2024. The start of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations was described as a timely initiative to create a robust framework for innovation and commerce between the two nations.

Mr Pillai also recognised the contributions of Singapore’s 450,000-strong Bangladeshi community, acknowledging their role in shaping the nation’s infrastructure and cultural fabric. He highlighted Bangladesh’s active participation in the Singapore Cooperation Programme (SCP), which has trained over 2,100 Bangladeshi professionals in areas such as finance, civil aviation, public administration, and sustainable development.

The reception ended on a note of warmth and forward-looking optimism, with reaffirmations of enduring friendship and shared goals amid an evolving global landscape.

Source: IN Diplomacy Reporters