DHAKA: Jean Lambert, Chair of the Delegation for Relations with South Asia of the European Parliament, on Monday said would continue to work closely with the government of Bangladesh.

The delegation chief made the assertion when she met the Foreign Minister Mahmood Ali at the State Guest House Padma in the city.

Welcoming the visit of the European Parliament delegation to Dhaka, the Minister expressed satisfaction on the excellent relationship of Bangladesh and the EU.

Terming the EU as an old and tested friend of Bangladesh playing a crucially important role in the development of Bangladesh, he conveyed to the Chair of Bangladesh’s deep appreciation of the EU for its   invaluable contribution, continued cooperation and assistance for sustainable economic development and struggle for achieving self reliance.

Lambert praised Bangladesh’s remarkable achievement in the socio-economic sector.

She added that a democratic and politically stable environment in the country is required to keep up the continued success in economy and social development.

Thanking the EU for its continued support in providing Duty-Free, Quota-Free access for the LDCs including Bangladesh in the EU market under its EBA arrangement, the Foreign Minister acknowledged the EU’s support in improving the work environment in the RMG sector in Bangladesh.

Highlighting the importance of the issue of climate change to Bangladesh, the Foreign Minister appreciated the EU assistance and funding in adaptation project in Bangladesh. Both the Foreign Minister and the Chair of the Delegation dignitaries agreed on a more meaningful partnership between Bangladesh and the EU.

The visiting European Parliament Delegation will also meet the Prime Minister, the Speaker and the Commerce Minister during their stay in Bangladesh.  

BDST: 1715 HRS, MAR 24, 2014