The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Foreign Adviser Dr Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury met with the members of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs at the Parliament House of the Netherlands in the Dutch capital on Tuesday evening.

On the first occasion, upon arrival, the Foreign Adviser was received by the Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Relations Fred De Graft.

Thereafter he made an initial statement before the Committee, followed by a question and answer session.

In his statement, he explained the foreign and domestic policies of the government and the reforms undertaken by the Caretaker Government. He also elaborated on the preparation of the forthcoming elections scheduled for December.

The senators asked a number of questions on the economic and social policies of the government. They showed keen interest in the upcoming elections. They also appreciated the steps being taken to make the elections "free, fair and credible".

Later, Dr Iftekhar also held a meeting with the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs of the second chamber. The discussions were hosted by the Chairman of the Committee, Henek Ormel.

Members of Parliament from both the Government coalition and opposition parties were present.

Following the initial statement of the Foreign Adviser, there were questions asked on the electoral reforms, food policies and women's empowerment, all of which were responded to by Dr Iftekhar Chowdhury.

The Chairman praised Bangladesh's policies particularly on peacekeeping, among others, and wished the country and the tasks ahead every success.

Earlier, the Foreign Adviser had visited the Water Board of Delft and discussed cooperation between the Netherlands and Bangladesh on water management.