UK wants to deepen ties: FM

The British government wants to strengthen its relations with Bangladesh on all fronts to help Bangladesh take its development trajectory to a newer height, said Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali Thursday, according to a news agency.
 “The election is over. It’s past. Now we look at the future. We want to work with your government and strengthen the ties,” he quoted British Prime Minister David Cameron as saying during his meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The Foreign Minister was speaking at a press conference, arranged to share the outcome of Prime Minister’s UK visit, at the Foreign Ministry. State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Meher Afroz Chumki also spoke at the press conference.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs M Shahriar Alam, Foreign Secretary M Shahidul Haque, Foreign Ministry Directors General (DGs) M Mahfuzur Rahman and Salahuddin Noman Chowdhury were, among others, present.
Responding to another question, the Foreign Minister said statement made by US Ambassador-designate to Bangladesh Marcia Stephens Bloom Bernicat should not be considered as reflection of US’ position on Bangladesh.
“Her comment in the hearing isn’t America’s comment. It’s not the comment of the US government. It’s her own remark,” he said.
Mahmood Ali described Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s UK visit ‘very successful’ and said the British Prime Minister assured of providing all necessary support to help Bangladesh maintain its progress.