The New Nation - Internet Edition

Law and Information Adviser Barrister Mainul Hosein
was present at an Iftar party hosted by Speaker of
Bangladesh Parliament Barrister Jamiruddin Sircar in honour
of Wang Zhongyu (right), Vice-Chairman of the 10th National
Committee of the Chinese People

UNB, Dhaka

President Professor Dr. Iajuddin Ahmed has stressed the need for enhancing bilateral trade and commerce between Bangladesh and China and urged the Chinese government for taking initiatives in narrowing the trade gap, heavily tilted in favour of China.

The remarks came when a 14-member Chinese Parliamentary delegation, led by Wang Zhongyu, senior most Vice-President of the 10th National Commitee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), called on the President at Bangabhaban on Thursday. Welcoming the delegation, the President expressed satisfaction at their visit to Bangladesh.

He thanked the government of China for granting duty-free access to 84 products from Bangladesh under the Asia-Pacific Trade Agreement and urged to provide more facilities to Bangladeshi products under the provision of the Agreement

He also called for more Chinese investment in Bangladesh. President Iajuddin stated that both the countries might work together to materialize the Kunming initiatives (Bangladesh-Myanmar-China road link), which will help to boost economic and tourism facilities among the connecting countries.

He apprised the delegation that Bangladesh believe in "One China Policy."

Bangladesh is commited to holding a free, fair and credible election in the country by the end of 2008, he told the delegation and invited international observers to observe the upcoming general election.