The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

German Ambassador Frank Meyke has said his country wishes Bangladesh a peaceful and successful transition to parliamentary government in December, as general election here is scheduled for this month.

"We will expect and hope that the elections will ensure sustainable democracy for Bangladesh, free from confrontational politics of the past," he said at a reception of the Day of German Unity at a local hotel on Wednesday evening.

Meyke hoped that political parties would successfully work together for a stable, democratic and prosperous Bangladesh, and Germany would continue to be a reliable partner on this way.

Commerce and Education Advisor Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman was the guest of honour at the reception largely attended by politicians, diplomats, businessmen, editors, academics, high officials and the elite of the city. The European diplomat said democracy and human rights are core values for the Germans and the people of Bangladesh alike and these values form the foundation of Bangladesh-Germany relations, which he said are expanding.

On the economic front, he said German Trade Show would take place in Dhaka November 5-8. He said the Germany-Bangladesh trade volume increased by 16 percent in the first seven months of 2008.

The Ambassador said last year German shipping companies ordered 10 ships worth US$150 million to be built by Bangladesh shipyards. Within next few days, he said, a second order of another 10 ships is in the pipeline.

Meyke said he would soon put forward comprehensive proposals to the Bangladesh government for expanding links between German and Bangladesh schools and their students.