Dhaka: Algerian Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr. Abdelouahab Saidani today paid a courtesy call on Jatiya Sangsad (JS) Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, Bir Bikram at the latter’s office here. Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed highlighted the potential for future joint progress between Bangladesh and Algeria, emphasizing the strong foundation of people-to-people contact and cultural ties between the two nations.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed acknowledged the Algerian government’s support for Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. He noted that this support has further strengthened the friendly relations between Bangladesh and Algeria. The Speaker also touched upon the political history of Bangladesh, expressing concerns over the 16-year rule of Sheikh Hasina, which he claimed endangered democracy through the suppression of opposition parties and extrajudicial killings. He praised former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia for her sacrifices in restoring democracy, noting that the recent national parliamentary election allowed the people of Bangladesh to regain their democratic rights.
The Algerian Ambassador expressed appreciation for the recent free and fair national parliamentary election in Bangladesh. During their meeting, they exchanged views on various areas of cooperation, including sports, technical assistance, the shipbuilding industry, garment exports, educational cooperation, and energy.
Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed proposed the formation of a parliamentary friendship group with Algeria, the establishment of strong diplomatic relations, and the exchange of visits of parliamentary delegations. Members of the Algerian embassy delegation and senior officials from the Bangladesh National Parliament Secretariat were also present at the meeting.