Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni plans to visit Bangladesh in December to boost trade, jobs and cooperation between the two nations, and the announcement came after a productive meeting in New York with Bangladesh’s chief adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus. The leaders talked about creating an Italy–Bangladesh Business Forum to help companies find partners, open markets and bring investment that can create new jobs and support local firms. They spoke about safe and legal paths for people who travel for work and agreed to expand vocational training so workers gain skills that match real job openings. Both sides stressed the need to stop people being lured into dangerous journeys and to break the criminal networks that put lives at risk. They also discussed the long humanitarian challenge of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh and agreed that more international help can ease the burden while efforts continue to find lasting solutions. Italy plans to send a high-level delegation to a UN conference to raise funds and coordinate support, and both countries hope that clearer plans will make it easier for donors and private partners to act together. The talks covered trade areas such as textiles, technology services and green projects, and both sides highlighted how stronger links can bring technical know-how, better quality and higher wages for workers. Organisers said the business forum would create a clear place for firms to meet, sign deals and explore joint ventures that match Italy’s demand with Bangladesh’s growing supply capacity. Experts at the meeting urged practical steps to make legal migration smoother, including training tied to real jobs, clearer recruitment standards, and monitored contracts that protect workers. They also recommended sharing police training and intelligence to stop smugglers and protect migrants. Beyond immediate economic gains, participants saw room to expand student exchanges, internships and research links that help businesses grow and give young people skills. Private firms, banks and international donors were asked to support small loans, short courses and pilot projects so new ideas can be tested without big risk. Many speakers described the New York talks as practical and citizen-focused because they aimed to turn plans into direct benefits like jobs, training and safer travel. With a December visit and a business forum on the agenda, both governments aim to move from promises to projects that create work, boost trade and make migration safer for families. If these steps are carried out with clear timelines, local partners and steady support, the plans could bring new opportunities for workers, firms and communities in both countries.
