Dhaka: Bangladesh and Sweden have expressed their hope that the ongoing negotiations of 'Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)' on the return of irregular migrants between Bangladesh and the European Union will be concluded soon.

The issue came up for discussion during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Sweden visit from June 14-16, reports news agency UNB.

At the invitation of Prime Minister of Sweden Stefan Lofven, Prime Minister Hasina undertook the first official visit by any Head of Government from either country in the 45 years of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Sweden.

Both Prime Ministers welcomed the close partnership that has emerged between Sweden and Bangladesh in the area of migration and development, according to a joint statement.

Both governments reiterated their strong commitments towards a positive and constructive outcome of the ongoing discussions on the Global Compact on Migration aiming at facilitating safe, orderly and regular migration.

Bangladesh, being one of the most climate vulnerable countries with a current population of 160 million, remains committed to the Paris Climate Agreement.

Sweden and Bangladesh reiterated their commitments to continue efforts with all friends and partners around the globe to mobilise domestic and international resources to address the grave threats posed by climate change.