The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

Foreign Adviser Dr. Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury told the visiting South African envoy to Bangladesh Ms. Buyisiwe Maureen Pheto that Bangladesh wishes to be a key partner of South Africa both in terms of bilateral relations and also in the international arena.

"Our people have always championed South Africa and seen Nelson Mandela as a hero of our times," Dr. Chowdhury told the envoy, who is based in Colombo.

Speaking to the media afterwards, Dr. Iftekhar Chowdhury said, "Bangladesh and South Africa have already been cooperating on micro-finance, women's empowerment and social issues. There are great prospects in collaboration with other areas as well."

It was agreed that a delegation from South Africa would visit Bangladesh to inquire into possibilities of expanding investment and trade relations, a foreign office press release said.