Bangladesh seeks sincere engagement with Myanmar

Myanmar : Envoy of Bangladesh Prime Minister Shahidul Haque conveyed a message of honest and sincere engagement from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Bangladesh Foreign Secretary called on State Counsellor of Myanmar Daw Aung San Suu Kyi today at Nay Pyi Taw to convey this message.

The Foreign Secretary handed over a letter from Bangladesh Prime Minister to Daw Suu kyi containing appreciation for the NLD leader and the new government for the determined effort in consolidating democracy and building an inclusive society in Myanmar. Shahidul Haque conveyed Bangladesh’s sincere desire to forge friendship, good neighbourliness and close cooperation with Myanmar in all areas of mutual interests. In this context, he shared experience of Bangladesh. Foreign Secretary also stressed on the need for an open and comprehensive discussion. He conveyed Bangladesh’s readiness to engage with Myanmar on all outstanding issues with sincerity, candidness and determination to resolve those.

Daw Suu Kyi warmly reciprocated the message of the Bangladesh Prime Minister. She stated that the two countries should face all challenges jointly. She highlighted Myanmar government’s firm resolve to find solutions to the challenges in the Rakhine State and elaborated various initiatives undertaken by the new government. The State Counsellor also affirmed that the new administration will remain focused to seek reconciliation among communities. Daw Suu Kyi expressed willingness to move bilateral relations forward through frequent engagements without being distracted by issues and incidents. Foreign Secretary conveyed invitation of Bangladesh Prime Minister to the State Counsellor to visit Bangladesh which she agreed to undertake at a convenient time.

Shahidul Haque later called on the Commander in Chief of the Defence Forces Senior General Min Aung Hlaing and discussed ways to enhance cooperation between the two countries. They also exchanged views on steps to enhance cooperation between the two Armed forces. Earlier, Bangladesh Foreign Secretary met U Aung Lynn, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and discussed ways and means to further enhance collaboration between the two Foreign Ministries. The Permanent Secretary U Lynn indicated an early convening of the next Foreign Office Consultation in Myanmar. Press Release.