UK State Minister for Commonwealth and UN Lord Ahmad concludes Bangladesh visit

UK State Minister for the Commonwealth and the UN Lord Tariq Ahmad has concluded his Bangladesh visit with pledges to continue strengthening the UK-Bangladesh friendship.

News Deskbdnews24.com
Published : 9 August 2017, 02:40 PM
Updated : 9 August 2017, 02:40 PM

Lord Tariq Ahmad left Bangladesh on Wednesday following a two-day trip, the first visit by a British minister since June elections.

During the visit, Lord Ahmad met Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam.

His visit reinforced the UK’s commitment to deepening relations and cooperation with Bangladesh relating to a wide range of issues including trade, development, migration, and the shared challenge of combating terrorism and extremism.

He reiterated the UK’s hope that the next parliamentary elections would be free, fair and inclusive.

“Number one, please participate and secondly let’s have a free, fair and transparent election because those are foundations for ensuring sustainable democracy for the long term.”

Ahead of the Commonwealth Summit in London next year, Lord Ahmad called on Bangladesh to play a leading role.

“The Commonwealth has huge potential to increase its global influence. Britain will be looking at ways to reinvigorate and re-energize this unique institution when London hosts the Commonwealth Summit next April.

“Bangladesh has a great tale to tell, which should be shared with our partner Commonwealth countries, about the work it has done to empower women and girls through education and employment,” said Ahmad, according to a press release.

He also discussed the role of the Commonwealth in promoting values such as tolerance, human rights and the rule of law.

Lord Ahmad visited a textile factory to witness a skills development programme for workers in the ready-made garment industry, which is being carried out with UK assistance.

The minister acknowledged the role the garment industry plays in Bangladeshi women’s emancipation.

“It’s marvellous to see millions of women in Bangladesh becoming self-reliant through employment. This is a driving force behind the country’s progress towards middle-income status.”

Lord Ahmad also addressed a reception for Bangladeshis who had studied in the UK on Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships. Launching the UK’s Chevening scholarship for 2018-2019, Lord Ahmad welcomed the fourfold increase in the number of scholarships since 2014.