Bangladesh, Myanmar should move quickly on agreed projects: Iftekhar

---

Foreign Adviser Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury Tuesday said Bangladesh and Myanmar should move quickly on their agreed projects, including one on cross-border roadway communications, reports UNB.
He mentioned the agreements on projects such as road link, contract farming and a tripartite body comprising the United Nations, Myanmar and Bangladesh to finally resolve the outstanding problem of Rohingya refugees.
The Foreign Adviser made the suggestions during discussion with a visiting delegation from Myanmar led by U Aung Tun, Deputy Commerce Minister, at the Foreign Ministry in the morning.
Also present, apart from other delegates, were the envoy of Myanmar in Bangladesh Ambassador U Nyan Linn and Bangladesh Ambassador to Myanmar Maj Gen Abu Roshde Rokonuddawla.
Describing Bangladesh as a "very good friend of Myanmar", Iftekhar said Bangladesh was eager to expand bilateral economic relations.
He recalled his visit to Myanmar in April this year, which, he said, both governments considered as a "crucial breakthrough".
He mentioned that cooperation with Myanmar, a next-door neighbour, was a key pillar of Bangladeshi foreign policy.
The Myanmar Minister thanked the Adviser for the warm welcome and also apprised him of the bilateral talks being undertaken currently on trade matters.
On the situation in Myanmar, he informed the Foreign Adviser of the "roadmap of the Myanmar government leading to the restoration of full democracy".
Speaking to the media afterwards, Iftekhar said, "I told him Bangladesh is a true friend of Myanmar and encouraged him on the roadmap. I said Bangladesh supports the Gambari initiative and we are also happy with the visit of Paulo Pinheiro, the Special Envoy on Human Rights."
"We understand the complexity of the Myanmar issue and also believe that it is useful to keep the international authorities constructively engaged," the Adviser advised.
"I believe it will be for Myanmar's benefit, and I told him so".