Bangladesh and Russia agreed to expand political and economic cooperation for mutual interest, reports UNB.
The broad-based understanding came during a formal discussion between Adviser for Foreign Affairs Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow Monday.
The discussion covered issues of possible procurement of food grains, fertilisers and energy from Russia and export of a greater quantum of Bangladeshi manufactures like ready-made garment (RMG) and pharmaceuticals.
Chowdhury, who went to Russia on a three-day official visit, told the Russian media that Bangladeshis and Russians had emotional and intellectual relationships that went back centuries.
"Today, we're eager to transform those linkages into effective cooperation", he said.
Bangladesh is an important member of the United Nations and a key international actor, Lavrov said.
"We're also close friends and Russia will lend support to Bangladesh in every possible way. We believe the relationship will be mutually beneficial", he said.
After the discussion, they signed a consular convention, which hoped would be the first of several agreements the two governments will sign.
Lavrov hosted a dinner in honour of Iftekhar Chowdhury Monday.
Earlier, the adviser called on Deputy Prime Minister SE Naryshkin at his office.
They underscored the importance of the new political relationship between their countries. "Russia today has a huge role to play in the global arena. As a friend, Bangladesh will walk with Russia", the adviser said.
Dhaka, Moscow agree to expand political, economic cooperation
FE Team | Published: September 05, 2007 00:00:00 | Updated: February 01, 2018 00:00:00
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