Bangladesh–Estonia relations

Bangladesh–Estonia relations are the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Estonia. The two countries established diplomatic relations in 1992 and have since engaged in limited but growing cooperation, particularly in technology and trade.^[1][2]

Bangladesh and Estonia formally established diplomatic relations on 5 November 1992, shortly after Estonia regained its independence following the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. This formal recognition marked the beginning of bilateral engagement between the two countries.^[3]

Bangladesh and Estonia have expressed growing interest in strengthening economic cooperation, particularly in the fields of pharmaceuticals, shipbuilding, and information and communication technology (ICT). During an official meeting in October 2022, Estonian Foreign Minister Urmas Reinsalu conveyed Estonia’s willingness to import pharmaceutical products and ocean-going ships from Bangladesh.^[4] In response, Bangladesh’s ambassador to Estonia, Allama Siddiki, confirmed Bangladesh’s readiness to meet Estonia’s demands, highlighting the international standard of Bangladeshi products.^[5]

In 2018, Estonia opened its honorary consulate in Dhaka.^[6] The then Estonian Foreign Affairs Minister, Sven Mikser, noted that the honorary consul would not only support business and ICT links but also contribute to fostering a meaningful relationship between the two nations. Syed Farhad Ahmed, appointed as Estonia’s honorary consul in Bangladesh, stated his belief that the consulate would positively impact bilateral cooperation, including cultural engagement.^[7]

On 27 March 2023, Bangladesh and Estonia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on bilateral political consultations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka. Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen signed the agreement on behalf of Bangladesh and non-resident Estonian Ambassador Katrin Kivi on behalf of Estonia.^[8]

Both countries have also identified the ICT sector as a promising area for collaboration.^[9] Estonia’s leadership in digital governance and technological innovation—exemplified through platforms like X-Road and Estfeed—has drawn Bangladesh’s interest.^[10] During a bilateral meeting in April 2024, Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen expressed Bangladesh’s intention to collaborate with Estonia in areas related to Industry 4.0, automation, and digital transformation. He emphasized the importance of knowledge sharing and joint ventures in IT to enhance productivity and industrial modernization.^[5]

Additionally, both parties acknowledged the untapped potential of bilateral trade and emphasized the role of reciprocal visits by trade delegations, involving chambers of commerce and business associations, to promote business-to-business (B2B) engagement.^[5]

In October 2024, Estonia expressed a strong interest in supporting Bangladesh’s interim government and enhancing cooperation in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, particularly in areas such as e-governance and cybersecurity.^[11] This intent was conveyed during a courtesy meeting between Estonia’s newly appointed non-resident ambassador to Bangladesh, Marje Loop, and Bangladesh's Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain.^[12]

The adviser congratulated Ambassador Loop on her new assignment and briefed her about the vision and ongoing reform initiatives of Bangladesh’s interim government. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations and enhancing existing cooperation.^[13][14]

In 2023, Bangladesh exported approximately $54 million worth of goods to Estonia. Major export items included knit T-shirts (valued at $10.3 million), knit sweaters ($7.37 million), and non-knit women's suits ($5.37 million). Additional exports included gloves, men’s suits, and textile accessories, reflecting Bangladesh's strong textile manufacturing sector. Between 2018 and 2023, Bangladesh's exports to Estonia grew at an annualized rate of 11.6%, increasing from $31.3 million to $54 million during this period.^[15]

In contrast, Estonia exported approximately $1.04 million worth of goods to Bangladesh in 2023. The principal items were electrical transformers ($556k), semi-chemical woodpulp ($322k), and refined petroleum ($70.6k). From 2018 to 2023, Estonia’s exports to Bangladesh declined at an annualized rate of 8.17%, decreasing from $1.6 million to $1.04 million.^[15]

Although the total trade volume remains relatively modest, the trade balance significantly favors Bangladesh. Both countries have expressed interest in diversifying trade beyond garments and machinery, with Estonia indicating potential in sectors like pharmaceuticals, ICT, and maritime cooperation.^[5]

Bangladesh and Estonia have been progressively enhancing their cultural and educational cooperation in recent years. In April 2024, during a bilateral meeting in Dhaka, Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen emphasized the importance of expanding educational opportunities for Bangladeshi students in Estonia. He advocated for increased academic partnerships and student exchange programs to foster innovation and economic growth in both countries.^[16]

Estonia has emerged as an attractive destination for Bangladeshi students seeking higher education.^[17] Currently, approximately 400 Bangladeshi students are pursuing studies in Estonia, drawn by the country's affordable tuition fees, quality education, and vibrant student life. Leading Estonian universities such as the University of Tartu, Tallinn University, and Tallinn University of Technology offer a wide range of programs in fields including information technology, engineering, business, and the arts.^[18][19]

To support international students, Estonian universities and the government provide various scholarships and support services. Scholarships like the Excellent Scholarships at Tallinn University and the Kristjan Jaak Scholarships help Bangladeshi students with tuition and living expenses. Additionally, student support centers offer academic advising, mental health counseling, career planning, and cultural integration workshops, facilitating a smooth transition for Bangladeshi students into Estonian academic and social life.^[18][20]