Bangladesh, Australia vow to strengthen parliamentary democracy

Bangladesh and Australia have pledged to strengthen parliamentary democracy and deepen inter-parliamentary cooperation.

Both sides made the pledge during a meeting between a visiting Australian parliamentary delegation, led by Speaker of the House of Representatives Milton Dick, and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Thursday, the foreign ministry said in a press release.

At the meeting, Speaker Milton Dick noted that Australia was among the first few countries to recognise Bangladesh following its independence. 

Congratulating Bangladesh on holding a recent free, fair, and peaceful election, he emphasised the importance of strengthening parliamentary democracy across the world.

He also highly appreciated the contributions of the Bangladeshi community in Australia to Australian society and the economy. 

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

Both sides underscored the need for enhanced connectivity, exchanges, and the sharing of experiences between the two parliaments. 

They emphasised introducing inter-parliamentary programmes among the parliamentarians of the two countries. 

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

The Australian parliamentary delegation also met Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, in the House on Thursday. 

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 Begum Khaleda Zia.

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