Bangladesh and Bhutan discuss stronger bilateral trade, financial cooperation and SAARCFINANCE activities during the IMF-World Bank annual meetings in Bangkok.
Bangladesh and Bhutan have discussed strengthening bilateral trade and financial cooperation during a meeting between their central bank governors on the sidelines of the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group in Bangkok, Thailand. The discussions also focused on strengthening the SAARCFINANCE Working Group and expanding regional financial cooperation.
Bangladesh Bank Governor Md Mostaqur Rahman met Yangchen Tshogyel, Governor of the Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan. The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on matters of mutual interest and explore ways to deepen economic engagement between the two countries.
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The discussions covered bilateral trade, financial cooperation and the activities of the SAARCFINANCE Working Group, which brings together central bank governors and finance secretaries from member countries of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). The network provides a platform for regional dialogue on monetary and financial matters.
Bangladesh Bank Deputy Governor Md Habibur Rahman and Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan Deputy Governor Uygen Choden also attended the meeting. Both sides described the discussions as constructive and successful.
The meeting follows broader efforts by Bangladesh and Bhutan to strengthen their economic partnership. During their fourth Foreign Office Consultations in Dhaka in August 2026, the two countries discussed expanding trade and investment, improving connectivity and strengthening cooperation in agriculture, tourism, education, healthcare and other sectors. They also explored expanding product coverage under the Bangladesh-Bhutan Preferential Trade Agreement and the possibility of a future free trade agreement.
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Continued engagement between the countries’ financial authorities could help improve regional coordination and identify opportunities to expand bilateral commerce. The latest meeting highlights the role of central bank cooperation and regional platforms in supporting stronger economic ties across South Asia.