DHAKA: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday remarked that her Malaysia visit was successful and effective as four treaties and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between the two countries.

She made the observation while addressing the media in the afternoon at Ganobhaban, the official residence of the PM, over her recent Malaysia visit and the SAARC Summit held in Nepal.

Hasina further said the Prime Minister of Malaysia also recognized the contribution of Bangladeshi workers for the development of the country and discussed with her about providing more opportunities to them.

While talking about SAARC Summit, the premier said, “The SAARC leaders consented on working together to ensure welfare and opportunities of the South Asian people who have been working in foreign countries.”

Sheikh Hasina further said Bangladesh does not want anything from Pakistan rather they (Pakistan) wants to know how Bangladesh is developing so fast.

In response to a question, the prime minister said, “We cannot cut off the diplomatic relationship with other countries as we can discuss about the problem, and this is the rule of democracy.”

Besides, the incumbent government follows the motto of Bangabandhu that said “friendship with all nations, enmity to none”.

PM also said the government will elevate its relationship with all countries for the development of Bangladesh.

Pointing to the visit of US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian affairs Nisha Desai Biswal, Hasina said she can express her observations.

Hasina also said Bangladesh played a constructive role in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Summit.

She added some of the proposals by Bangladesh were adopted in the SAARC Summit.

The premier also said Bangladesh, in the summit, called the heads of states and governments to take a position against extremism.

While talking about the January 5 national election, Sheikh Hasina said if the election were denied, Bangladesh would have sunk into a situation like Thailand where the military regime has been reigning.

“The war criminals have been punished for their crimes against humanity as was our election pledge,” she commented.

Sheikh Hasina, also ruling Awami League president, participated in the SAARC Summit that held in Kathmandu of Nepal on November 26-27.

She also paid a three-day official visit to Malaysia from December 2-4.

** Bangladesh plays productive role in SAARC Summit

BDST: 1820 HRS, DEC 05, 2014