Italy backs July Charter reforms during high-level Dhaka meeting. Deputy Minister Matteo Perego di Cremnago affirms support for Bangladesh’s transition and February 12 election.
Italy backs July Charter as Bangladesh pursues democratic renewal. Italy’s Deputy Minister for Defence Matteo Perego di Cremnago met Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday January 20 2026 at State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka. He stated Italy supports the comprehensive reforms in the July Charter. Italy backs July Charter and reaffirms backing for Bangladesh’s democratic transition through the February 12 general election. Discussions covered trade defence cooperation migration election observation and the July Charter.
Italy Supports Bangladesh Democratic Transition
Italy supports Bangladesh in its democratic transition. Perego described the Indo-Pacific as the new centre of global gravity. He said Italy seeks to strengthen ties with Bangladesh due to its growing economy. Italy supports Bangladesh through expressed full backing for reforms and the upcoming vote. The meeting included wide-ranging talks. Yunus reaffirmed commitment to a free fair transparent and festive election on February 12. He expected strong turnout especially from youth previously excluded in past elections.
Perego praised the July Charter. He said Italy supports the comprehensive reforms outlined in the document. Italy backs July Charter to introduce sweeping changes for democratic renewal in Bangladesh. Yunus sought Italy’s support for the transition and enhanced cooperation in defence trade and investment. Italy supports Bangladesh on legal migration pathways to address ageing populations in Europe.
Italy Bangladesh Election Backing
Italy Bangladesh election support focuses on the February 12 vote in Bangladesh. Perego reaffirmed Rome’s backing of the democratic process. Yunus highlighted EU deployment of a large team of election observers. Italy Bangladesh election discussions included the referendum alongside the general election. The support signals international legitimacy for Bangladesh’s interim government’s roadmap.
Deputy Minister Italy Bangladesh talks extended to defence. Perego met military leaders including the Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Naval Staff. Discussions explored bilateral military cooperation synergies in forces and potential collaboration.
Deputy Minister Italy Bangladesh Meeting Details
Deputy Minister Italy Bangladesh engagement occurred during Perego’s visit to Bangladesh. Attendees included National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman SDGs Affairs Principal Coordinator Lamiya Morshed Italian Ambassador Antonio Alessandro and others. Topics included migration concerns over illegal Mediterranean routes while noting positive integration of Bangladeshi community in Italy.
Yunus recalled his prior involvement in designing the 2026 Milano–Cortina Winter Olympics as a social business event. He emphasised expanding legal migration to countries like Italy and Japan facing demographic shifts. Italy supports Bangladesh on these fronts alongside political reforms.
Background
Bangladesh undergoes significant political changes post-uprising. The July Charter outlines reforms for democratic renewal under the interim government led by Nobel laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus. International support bolsters legitimacy ahead of the February 12 2026 election in Bangladesh. Italy’s endorsement adds to diplomatic engagements from European partners. Bilateral ties cover defence trade and migration. Bangladesh hosts a large diaspora in Italy. Cooperation strengthens in strategic areas amid Indo-Pacific focus.
The meeting aligns with broader efforts to build partnerships. Italy views Bangladesh as key in regional growth. Support for July Charter and election reflects commitment to stability in Bangladesh.
What’s Next
Italy backs July Charter paving way for deeper bilateral ties with Bangladesh. Focus shifts to election preparations and potential cooperation in defence trade investment. February 12 vote will test transition success in Bangladesh. International observers including EU play key role. Italy supports Bangladesh in this phase. Ongoing dialogue may yield concrete outcomes in migration and security.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 21st, 2026
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