The EU is planning to send a large delegation of election observers to Bangladesh for the national parliamentary elections scheduled for the first half of February, the first such full-fledged mission since 2008, said Michael Miller, the European Union (EU) Ambassador to Bangladesh.

He gave this information during a meeting with Chief Advisor Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna on Tuesday (October 28).

Miller said the EU observer team has not yet been finalized, but it could be between 150 and 200 members. Some representatives will join about six weeks before the election and others a week before the vote.

He told the chief advisor, “This is the first time since 2008 that the EU is sending such a full-fledged election observation team to Bangladesh.” At the same time, the EU will also assist in the recruitment of local observers during the voting.

During the hour-long meeting, both sides discussed various issues including good governance and constitutional reforms, electoral preparations, judicial and labor reforms, trade and investment relations between Bangladesh and the European Union, and the country’s broader political process.

Praising the July National Charter as a “hugely important” document, Ambassador Miller said it was an important step in paving the way for a democratic transition (in Bangladesh). He also praised the recently approved labor law reforms and initiatives to strengthen the independence of the judiciary, calling them “significant achievements.”

“These are all important steps,” he said, emphasizing the EU’s continued support for the Election Commission’s efforts to ensure free, fair and credible elections in February. He also described the upcoming elections as “an opportunity to rebuild the country’s reputation.”

He also said that the EU will stand by Bangladesh to ensure a smooth transition from a least developed country (LDC) to a middle-income country.

During the meeting, both sides discussed ways to deepen trade and investment relations, including the possibility of an Economic Partnership Agreement and exploring new opportunities in aviation and shipping. They also agreed to work more closely to combat human trafficking and illegal migration.

Bangladesh is expected to sign an agreement with global shipping giant AP Moller-Maersk for the development and management of the Laldia Terminal at Chittagong Port, the Chief Advisor’s Press Wing said.

Miller said the company plans to invest about $800 million to develop Laldia into one of the leading terminals in the region.

In addition, both sides discussed the electoral environment, the qualifications of candidates, and ensuring proper processes to uphold human rights before the vote.