Dhaka: Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad on Sunday emphasized the robust and friendly relations between Bangladesh and Italy, expressing optimism for further expansion of these ties in the future. His remarks came during a courtesy call by Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh, Antonio Alessandro, at the Speaker's office.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Speaker highlighted Italy's recognition of Bangladesh in 1972, marking the commencement of a fruitful bilateral relationship. He acknowledged Italy's support for Bangladeshi migrants and noted Italy as a key destination for Bangladeshi exports within the European Union. Hafiz Uddin also remarked on Bangladesh's renewed commitment to democratic processes following the latest national election, which has strengthened its relations with democratic nations globally.
The Speaker further mentioned Italy's efforts to ensure safe and legal migration for Bangladeshi citizens and appreciated the financial assistance provided by Italy for humanitarian purposes and the rehabilitation of Rohingyas. He underlined Italy's role as a significant commercial partner, especially in supplying defense equipment and Italian machinery to Bangladesh.
Italian Ambassador Antonio Alessandro reaffirmed the longstanding friendship between the two countries and Italy's ongoing support for Bangladesh's democratic development. He expressed Italy's interest in enhancing parliamentary diplomacy by forming a Bangladesh-Italy Parliamentary Friendship Group and facilitating exchanges of parliamentary delegations. Alessandro also noted the substantial export of Bangladeshi ready-made garments, leather goods, and ceramic products to Italy annually.
During the meeting, both sides underscored the importance of establishing a parliamentary friendship group, addressing the Rohingya crisis, and exploring oil and gas resources in Bangladesh's coastal areas to meet the country's energy demands. The Speaker invited Italian firms to engage in the exploration and extraction of these resources.
Diplomatic representatives from the Italian Embassy and officials from the Parliament Secretariat were present at the meeting.