A Bangladesh envoy met the mayor of Larissa in Greece to discuss ways the two cities can work together on farming, culture and local services, a meeting that points to new chances for cooperation. Nahida Rahman Shumona, Bangladesh’s ambassador to Greece, joined a session at the Thessaly AgriBusiness Forum and used the platform to outline practical steps for closer ties. She noted an agreement that opens paths for the employment of farm workers from Bangladesh in Greece. The meeting shows a clear interest to shape people-centered ties that help both workers and local firms. Shumona said trained workers from Bangladesh can support seasonal farm needs while also sending skills and money home that lift families and markets. She described a national agency Bangladesh has set up to manage requests for skilled personnel, which can make recruitment clearer and safer. Larissa’s mayor, Thanasis Mamakos, and his team welcomed ideas that could help farms and city services while growing cultural and tourism links. Deputy mayor for administration and finance Achilleas Kellas and deputy mayor for green policy Konstantinos Kalogiros joined the talks and stressed the city’s interest in green farming and better municipal services. Both sides discussed small, practical steps such as pilot projects matching local needs with Bangladeshi skills, joint workshops for farmers and city staff, and exchange visits so officials can see projects firsthand. Speakers stressed the value of trust built through clear agreements, steady contact and support for worker rights and fair pay. Local business leaders and farmers at the forum showed interest in partnerships that bring new crop varieties, simple technology and training to fields in Thessaly while opening market links for Bangladeshi goods and services. Participants also imagined cultural programs to accompany trade ties, with festivals, student exchanges and artist visits that help people learn about each other and build friendships. The tone was hopeful and practical: small moves now can lead to steady benefits for both communities. Environmental concerns were part of the talks, with Larissa leaders keen to explore methods that cut water use, improve soil health and boost farm incomes through sustainable practices. Officials said they will follow up with joint teams to sketch pilot plans, check local rules and design simple training farmers and municipal staff can use right away. By linking municipal know-how, farming experience and fair hiring systems, the two sides aim to make work safer, strengthen local economies and build lasting ties. The meeting showed how city-to-city diplomacy can open practical doors for jobs, trade and cultural exchange while keeping community needs and worker safety central. Community groups and chambers of commerce were encouraged to join so projects can grow from local ideas into shared success stories for both regions.
