The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

Foreign Adviser Dr Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury yesterday said the international community "stands solidly with Bangladesh at the hour of our needs."

He said this while talking to the media after briefing members of the diplomatic corps on post-cyclone relief operations at his ministry.

The Foreign Adviser thanked the diplomats for the "huge and enthusiastic support, both moral and material" that Bangladesh has been receiving from their countries.

He said he told the diplomats that the Government's timely preparations saved lives and minimised the consequences of cyclone Sidr. "We have to work in a coordinated fashion," he added.

The Foreign Adviser said the country will overcome this setback and move forward beyond the rehabilitation and reconstruction to development and progress.

He said Bangladesh would need continued support from members of the international community.

In this context, he said leaders of the Commonwealth Summit in Kampala praised this spirit of Bangladesh.