The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Congressman Howard Berman (D-CA) has lauded the contribution of Bangladesh community in the US.

"Bangladesh community in the USA is a positive force for promoting development and diversity in this country," said Howard, also the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, during a meeting at his office with Bangladesh Ambassador M Humayun Kabir on Wednesday.

Kabir then briefed the Congressman about the recent developments in Bangladesh, which could facilitate holding of the parliamentary elections during the third week of December 2008 and sought the support of the Congressman to help Bangladesh made this important transition to democracy.

In reply, Congressman Berman promised to do so and accepted the invitation to visit Bangladesh at the earliest opportunity.

On the same day, Kabir also met Congressman Gary Ackerman, Chairman of House Foreign Affairs Sub-Committee on Middle East and South Asia and Congressman Joseph Crowley, Co-Chair of Bangladesh Congressional Caucus.

He briefed them about the evolving situation in Bangladesh, with particular focus on the progress on human rights issues and ongoing dialogue of the political parties with the Election Commission to work out the modalities for the elections.

Both Congressmen Ackerman and Crowley were encouraged by the initiatives of the government and contribution of other stakeholders to energize the process of transition to democracy in Bangladesh, said a message received here on Friday.

Congressman Crowley informed the Ambassador that a high level congressional delegation could visit Bangladesh soon.

He also said that the Congress was considering a resolution to encourage the democratic process in Bangladesh.

Kabir thanked the Congressmen for their support to Bangladesh and expressed the readiness of the Embassy to remain engaged with them with a view to promoting the common bilateral interests.

Deputy Chief of Bangladesh Mission Sheikh Mohammad Belal and First Secretary Monwar Hossain also attended these meetings at the Capitol Hill.