UK Indo-Pacific Minister Catherine West will discuss her country’s continued support for political and economic reforms, security, trade cooperation and migration as she begins her short visit to Bangladesh yesterday (November 15).

The UK Minister will meet Chief Counsel Professor Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Affairs Counselor Ms Touhid Hossain during his visit, marking the UK’s first ministerial visit to Bangladesh since the formation of the caretaker government.

The visit will also include meetings with political and business leaders as well as members of civil society.

Minister West said: “The UK supports the work of the caretaker government to build a more prosperous and democratic future for the people of Bangladesh.”

She will announce new UK funding to support Rohingya refugees and host communities with essential services and assistance.

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke said: “I am delighted to welcome UK Indo-Pacific Minister Catherine West to Bangladesh.”

This visit will deepen and expand the UK’s economic and security partnership with Bangladesh, the High Commissioner said.

“Bangladesh is currently undergoing a transformation and as a long-standing friend, the UK will assist in the economic and political reforms that will help Bangladesh continue its social and economic growth as it moves towards an inclusive and democratic future.” .

Student-led protests over the summer caused shocking loss of life and injuries. Britain’s support for the mass uprising has included deploying a specialist medical team to treat some of the most seriously injured during the protests.

Rohingya refugees and their host communities in Bangladesh will receive essential support and services through new UK funding.

Bangladeshis affected by natural disasters this year will also receive UK-funded assistance.

Since the establishment of the Interim Government in August 2024, the UK has been clear in its support for its work on accountability and creating a path to an inclusive democratic future for Bangladesh.

Minister Catherine West will meet with student leaders and political parties to discuss the UK’s support for Bangladesh’s democratic recovery and with business leaders to discuss how the UK government can continue to build strong links and boost trade and investment mutually beneficial.

Recently announced British funding has already provided food for 200,000 Rohingya refugees for three months. It will now provide additional support to Rohingya refugees with clean water, hygiene and sanitation services, primary health care, protection services and shelter materials.

The UK will also provide assistance to those affected by the natural disasters in Bangladesh earlier this year.