PM talks of cooperation at iftar with diplomats

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has expressed the hope that Bangladesh and the international community will move forward together on a "path of peace, development and prosperity" through mutual cooperation, reports bdnews24.com.
He made the remarks in his welcome speech at an Iftar ceremony for diplomats from different countries at the State Guest House Jamuna on Friday.
"Today's iftar is not just a formal event, it reminds us of the importance of mutual respect, compassion and unity among people of different nations, creeds and cultures. These values are the foundation of building a peaceful and tolerant society," he said.
Bangladesh ascribes "great importance" to bilateral and multilateral relations with all countries based on mutual "respect, cooperation and trust", Tarique said.
The prime minister reiterated the government's stance on protecting freedom, ensuring human rights and fighting corruption, stating: "The government is working to strengthen the law-and-order situation in the country, further empower and encourage women, and build a strong and inclusive economy by supporting new entrepreneurs."
Tarique, his wife Zubaida Rahman, and daughter Zaima Rahman exchanged greetings with various diplomats at the ceremony.
Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka Pranay Verma, Pakistani High Commissioner Imran Haider, Sri Lankan High Commissioner Dharmapala Weerakkody, Bhutanese Ambassador Dasho Karma Hamu Dorjee, Nepalese Ambassador Ghanshyam Bhandari shared Iftar meal with the prime minister and his family at the same table.
Also in attendance were ambassadors from several Muslim countries in Dhaka, US Ambassador Brent Christensen, UK High Commissioner Sarah Cooke, Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, and envoys and high commissioners of various countries in Dhaka.
Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, Foreign Affairs Minister Khalilur Rahman, and other members of the Cabinet took part as well.
Tarique also took part in a prayer service before Iftar.