Dhaka has urged the Australian envoy to advocate for the establishment of an Australian visa processing facility here and to work towards easing visa procedures for Bangladeshi nationals.

The call was made when acting high commissioner of Australia to Bangladesh Nardia Simpson paid a farewell courtesy call on foreign secretary ambassador Md Jashim Uddin at his office on Thursday, said a foreign ministry’s press release on Friday.

During the meeting, the Foreign Secretary commended Ms. Simpson for her efforts in strengthening bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Australia.

He particularly highlighted the successful convening of the fifth round of Senior Officials’ Talks and the Joint Working Group Meeting under the TIFA framework.

Jashim also noted the recent visit of the Australian Home Minister, which significantly contributed to further consolidating the ties between the two countries.

The Foreign Secretary underscored the importance of holding regular dialogues under the agreed bilateral frameworks.

Simpson reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to its robust partnership with Bangladesh, emphasizing the high importance the Australian government attaches to this relationship.

She expressed her appreciation for Bangladesh’s steadfast commitment and actions in combating human trafficking and assured her continued efforts at Headquarters to address visa and consular issues upon her return.

The discussions also covered areas of collaboration, including education, skills development and the Rohingya crisis.