Dhaka: British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke paid a courtesy call on Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, at his Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban office on Monday. During the meeting, the Speaker highlighted the enduring friendly relations between Bangladesh and the United Kingdom, noting the UK’s support during Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Speaker emphasized that Bangladesh follows the Westminster system of democracy and credited former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia with restoring parliamentary democracy in 1991. He affirmed that the latest parliamentary election was conducted in a free, fair, and participatory manner, aligning with the people’s aspirations. Additionally, he highlighted the government’s accountability to the people and lauded the Prime Minister’s efforts to address issues faced by grassroots populations and marginal farmers.
The discussion also touched on expanding quality and technical education, with the Speaker suggesting that the UK could significantly contribute to enhancing the standard of tertiary education in Bangladesh. Both sides explored bilateral cooperation in education, foreign direct investment, and the migration crisis, discussing potential solutions.
The conversation also covered parliamentary democracy, with discussions on UK support for democratic reform, women’s political participation, and Commonwealth parliamentary cooperation. High Commissioner Sarah Cooke assured that the UK will continue supporting Bangladesh in its democratic endeavors. She addressed ongoing tensions in the Middle East, stating that the British government opposes war and conflict.
The High Commissioner congratulated the Speaker on his election, while the Speaker underscored the significance of forming a parliamentary friendship group with the UK and increasing exchange visits between parliamentary delegations, according to a press release.