Agrilife24.com:Bangladesh has expressed keen interest in strengthening bilateral cooperation with Italy in the fisheries and livestock sectors, focusing on aquaculture, livestock production, marine fisheries, and the blue economy.

The matter was discussed at a bilateral meeting between State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku, MP, and Luigi D'Eramo, Italian Undersecretary of State for Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forests (state minister). The meeting was held today on the sidelines of an event at the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome.

Highlighting the pivotal role of fisheries and livestock sectors in ensuring food security, nutrition, employment, and livelihoods in Bangladesh, State Minister said fish and livestock farmers will  soon be brought under the “Farmer Card” scheme, enabling them to receive government incentives similar to crop farmers.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to building a sustainable, climate-resilient, and technology-driven aquaculture ecosystem, the State Minister noted that cooperation with Italy could be further expanded through advanced technology transfer,  research, specialized training, and the exchange of expertise.

Both Nations expressed interest in signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to broaden collaboration across fisheries, livestock, and the blue economy. They agreed to hold follow-up discussions at the official level to initiate necessary procedures.

Bangladesh Ambassador to Italy A. T. M. Rokibul Haque, Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock Joint Secretary Md. Saiful Islam, and Economic Counsellor Md. Al Amin were present, among others.