Dhaka, July 31 (BDNEWS) – Foreign Minister M Morshed Khan Monday criticised the developed world for adopting a double standard on, what he said, close relations between politics and trade.
He said one cannot separate trade from political consideration and the tendency of the developed countries to uphold any decision for their interests is injurious to the poor countries, as they cannot take such decision.
Khan also wondered whether trade embargo on Iraq and North Korea was imposed out of trade consideration.
The Foreign Minister was addressing the inaugural ceremony of a daylong international conference on Japan-SAARC Cooperation at Sonargaon Hotel.
Japan Study Centre of the University of Dhaka (DU) has organised the conference supported by Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Chaired by DU Vice Chancellor Prof SMA Faiz, the inaugural session was also addressed by Foreign Affairs Advisor Reaz Rahman, Charge d' Affaires of Japan Yonezo Fukuda and Director of Japan Study Centre Prof Dr Ataur Rahman.
Japanese Prime Minister Koizumi sent a message to mark the conference. Japanese Charge d' Affaires of Japan Yonezo Fukuda read out it.
Koizumi in the statement said Japan's Observer participation agreed at the 13th SAARC summit in Dhaka is a testimony to the deepening of relationship between Japan and the SAARC member states.
He said the development of South Asia is indispensable for the prosperity of Asia in its entirety. The activities of SAARC throughout the last 20 years for the improvement of welfare and quality of life are truly valuable, he added.
"It is with such recognition that Japan has supported SAARC through the Japan-SAARC Special Fund," Koizumi said.
Hailing the inclusion of Japan and China as Observers of SAARC, Khan said more countries like USA, South Korea and group like EU have formally sought SAARC Observer status. Besides, France also expressed its willingness to get involved with the forum individually or under the EU.
He stressed the need for unity of Asian countries and said the West has very little to offer economically while the Asian countries with 450 million people with growing middle class are the inherent strength of its economy.
Reaz Rahman said the SAARC could not make expected progress due to negative legacy and political differences. He also said that engagement of external actors would not make any difference unless SAARC puts its house in order.
In his remarks, Fukuda said despite the South Asia is home of about one-forth of the world population, its share in the world trade and global GDP are still very small. "Tokyo's involvement with the SAARC would enhance its commitment to South Asian development."
BDNEWS/1507 hrs
