BD, Bhutan can exploit potentials to grow together: President

BD, Bhutan can exploit potentials to grow together: President

Dhaka, Mar 26 - President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday emphasised on the joint coordination and initiatives of Bangladesh and Bhutan for regional prosperity and development.

The president made this remarks while visiting Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgel Wangchuck paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban.

President's Press Secretary Md Joynal Abedin briefed journalists after the meeting.

He said, "Two countries can enhance regional cooperation by utilising the strengths and priorities of their respective countries".

Highlighting the potentials of Bhutan and Bangladesh for mutual cooperation within regional platforms like SAARC, BIMSTEC, SSEC and BBIN, he said that the bilateral relations have been positive over time.

The cooperation between the two countries in the fields of trade, electricity, connectivity, agriculture, education, cultural exchange, people-to-people contacts and tourism is progressing well.

President Shahabuddin also expressed his gratitude to the king as he is visiting in the historic month of March.

Referring to the strong and historic ties of friendship between Bangladesh and Bhutan, President Shahabuddin expressed the hope that the two governments would work together to fulfill the aspirations of the people, for the common history, geographical proximity, prosperity and development of the two countries.

Recalling Bhutan's role as the first country to recognise Bangladesh as an independent state with gratitude, he said the people of Bangladesh are grateful to Bhutan.

The King of Bhutan appreciated the ongoing development in various sectors, including socio-economic culture under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

He referred to the elections held in harmony and highlighted various aspects of the practice and development of democracy.

The Bhutanese King praised the quality of Bangladeshi products including readymade garment, ceramics and medicines.

He also expressed interest in increasing bilateral cooperation in various sectors, including education, culture, communication and tourism in the days to come.

During the meeting, Industry, Commerce and Employment Minister Namgyal Dorji, Foreign Affairs and External Trade Minister D.N. Dhungyel and Health Minister Tandin Wangchuk were present, among others, from Bhutan side.

Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud, State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Mohammad Ali Arafat and secretaries concerned were present from Bangladesh side.

Earlier, on his arrival alongwith Queen at Bangabhaban at 4:25 pm, the President welcomed Bhutanese King with a bouquet while President’s wife Dr Rebeka Sultana received Bhutanese Queen Jetsun Pema with another bouquet.

The Bhutanese delegation later attended the reception ceremony followed by iftar and dinner.-UNB