Dhaka, Canberra vow stronger parliamentary democracy cooperation

Bangladesh and Australia today (9 April) pledged to strengthen parliamentary democracy and deepen inter-parliamentary cooperation.

The vow was made when the visiting Australian parliamentary delegation, led by Speaker of the House of Representatives Milton Dick, met State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, MP, at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, according to a press release.

During the meeting, the Australian Speaker noted that Australia was among the first countries to recognise Bangladesh following its independence and congratulated the country on holding a recent free, fair and peaceful election.

He emphasised the importance of strengthening parliamentary democracy globally and highly appreciated the contributions of the Bangladeshi diaspora in Australia to its economy and society.

State Minister Shama Obaed Islam highlighted the importance of greater participation of women in parliament and thanked Australia for its continued support to the Rohingyas sheltered in Bangladesh.

Both sides underscored the need to enhance connectivity, exchanges and experience-sharing between the two parliaments, including the introduction of structured inter-parliamentary programmes.

They also discussed the possible impact of the ongoing war in the Middle East, particularly in relation to an acute fuel supply situation.

During the visit, the Australian delegation called on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram.

The delegation toured the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, observed parliamentary proceedings, visited the July Memorial Museum and held interactions with civil society representatives.

They also paid tribute at the graves of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.

The visit marked the first-ever visit by an Australian Speaker to Bangladesh in the 125-year history of the Australian Parliament.