The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir, daughter of former Malaysian Premier Dr Mahathir bin Mohammad, on Thursday called on President Professor Dr Iajuddin Ahmed at Bangabhaban here.

Praising Marina's contribution to development of woman and children, the President apprised her of the government's different programmes targeting women and children, including free- education for girls up to class 12.

He said the country has achieved enormous success in bringing gender parity in primary schools.

Prof Iajuddin also said the micro credit programme, run by different non-government organisations including Grameen Bank of noble laureate Prof. Mohammad Yunus helped many poor women to become self-reliant.

Marina Mahathir expressed her deep gratitude to the President for giving her the opportunity to meet him. She appreciated the government and people of Bangladesh for providing warm hospitality during her staying here.

Secretary of the President's Office Md Sirajul Islam, Military Secretary to the President Major General Mohammad Ruhul Amin and President's Press Secretary Abdul Awal Howlader and President of Bangladesh Centre for Development Journalism and Communication and editor of the daily Amader Somoy Nayeemul Islam Khan were present, among others.