Officials say the proposal will need technical, financial and commercial review as Bangladesh looks to diversify energy sources and strengthen connectivity with Myanmar through long-term cooperation.
Bangladesh has proposed establishing a cross-border gas pipeline with Myanmar to import natural gas and expand regional energy cooperation as Dhaka explores new avenues to strengthen energy security and bilateral ties.
The proposal was placed during a meeting between Bangladesh’s Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud and Myanmar Ambassador to Bangladesh U Kyaw Soe Moe on Sunday at the minister’s office in the Secretariat.
During the meeting, the minister said Bangladesh as a close neighbour of Myanmar wants to increase cooperation in the energy sector and explore new areas of mutual interest.
Recalling discussions during Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s recent visit to China, Mahmud said proposals for enhanced China-Myanmar-Bangladesh connectivity could benefit from stronger energy links between the neighbouring countries. He said a pipeline connecting Bangladesh and Myanmar could play a supportive role in advancing regional connectivity.
“The possibilities of cooperation between Bangladesh and Myanmar should be explored in various sectors,” the minister said, highlighting the potential for long-term commercial relations and expanded energy partnerships.
The two sides also discussed strengthening bilateral trade and developing sustainable energy cooperation between the two countries.
Myanmar Ambassador U Kyaw Soe Moe said the existing Bangladesh-Myanmar Joint Technical Committee could hold a fresh meeting to review the proposal and assess possible areas of cooperation.
The proposed pipeline would require further technical, financial and commercial assessments before any decision is taken, officials said.
The initiative comes as Bangladesh seeks to diversify its energy sources amid rising demand and growing reliance on imported fuel. Regional energy connectivity has gained increasing importance across South and Southeast Asia as countries look for greater energy security and cross-border cooperation.
However, experts say any cross-border energy infrastructure project would require careful evaluation including technical feasibility, investment requirements and geopolitical considerations, particularly in view of Myanmar’s ongoing internal challenges.
The proposed Bangladesh-Myanmar energy partnership could become part of broader regional connectivity efforts if both sides find the project commercially and technically viable.
