The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

German Ambassador Frank Meyke suggested that the current anti-corruption drive should be balanced with economic growth and public interest so both the tasks advance concurrently. "It needs a right balance-fight against corruption and protect economy and public interest," he said, adding that the fight against corruption should not lead to more harm than good to the general people.

Meyke made the remarks at a talk with Dhaka Diplomatic Correspondents Association Bangladesh (DCAB) at DRU auditorium Monday. The envoy said volume of bilateral trade has decreased in first six months of 2007 due to political unrest and extreme political confrontation in the second half of last year. However, he expressed the confidence that the election roadmap and legally binding reforms of political parties would be "decisive factors in regaining the confidence of buyers and achieving strong export growth for Bangladesh again". In recent years, bilateral trade increased-to 1.86 billion Euro in 2006 from 988 million Euro in 2002. This represents 88 percent increase in four years. Meyke said German investment in Bangladesh amounts to about 50 million Euro only, but he said there is considerable potential for expansion.

The European diplomat spoke in favour of creating a "sustainable political climate congenial to foreign investment, with democracy and human rights stabilized and strengthened".

Asked about lifting ban on political activities and withdrawal of the state of emergency, he said the restrictions could be withdrawn gradually with the progress on party reforms and the election roadmap. As a drive against corruption in high quarters continued in the interim period, the envoy reiterated that due process should be followed in trying people on charges of corruption. He welcomed the process of electoral and political party reforms and anti-graft drive for improving governance.