Dhaka: Political Officer of the United States Embassy to Bangladesh, James Stewart, met with Md Nurul Islam, the Chief Whip of the Jatiya Sangsad, at his office in the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban today. Their discussions focused on the ongoing budget session of Parliament, parliamentary activities, and the potential formation of a Bangladesh-United States Parliamentary Caucus.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Chief Whip highlighted the government’s commitment to optimizing the use of the country’s limited resources. He emphasized that the primary goal is to enhance the living standards of the populace and to ensure sustainable development through the effective implementation of the national budget. He remarked that the establishment of a functional Parliament, following 17 years of democratic struggle, reflects the aspirations of the people.
In this session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad, 260 new members have been elected, experiencing their first budget session. Nurul Islam noted their earnest efforts to acquaint themselves with parliamentary rules and traditions. He observed a growing public interest in parliamentary proceedings, an encouraging sign for democratic practices.
Md Nurul Islam further stressed the importance of strengthening parliamentary democracy through active participation and institutional learning. James Stewart acknowledged the longstanding cooperative relationship between Bangladesh and the United States. He expressed that the proposed Bangladesh-US Parliamentary Caucus could enhance communication and cooperation between lawmakers of both nations. Stewart also commended the Chief Whip’s efforts in fostering a transparent and accountable Parliament.
The meeting was attended by officials from the US Embassy in Bangladesh and relevant officials from the Parliament Secretariat.