EU and Bangladesh Set to Finalize Comprehensive Partnership Agreement

On January 7, 2026, Paola Pampaloni, Acting Managing Director for Asia-Pacific at the European External Action Service (EEAS), met with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka. The discussion covered several important topics, including the ongoing negotiations on the Framework Agreement for a Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation (PCA) between the EU and Bangladesh, as well as the upcoming general elections and referendum.

Pampaloni highlighted the significant progress made since the initiation of PCA negotiations in November 2024, a partnership that had been in the works for two decades. She praised the Interim Government's efforts, particularly in reforms that the EU values highly, and emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability during this critical phase in Bangladesh’s political landscape.

In response, Professor Yunus expressed gratitude to the EU for its continued support to Bangladesh’s Interim Government, emphasizing the PCA’s importance in deepening ties between the two sides. Pampaloni also noted the EU’s commitment to overseeing the February 12 general elections with a high-level election observation mission, which will further strengthen democratic processes.

The Chief Adviser reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring free, fair, and peaceful elections, underscoring the significance of the February vote for Bangladesh’s democratic future. Both leaders agreed that a successful democratic transition would propel Bangladesh-EU relations to new heights.

Also present at the meeting were Lutfey Siddiqi, Special Envoy of the Chief Adviser; Lamiya Morshed, SDG Coordinator and Senior Secretary; and Michael Miller, the EU Ambassador to Bangladesh.