President Iajuddin Ahmed reiterated Bangladesh's unwavering support for the war on international terrorism, and its commitment to international peace and stability. The reiteration of Bangladesh position was made when newly appointed Canadian High Commissioner in Bangladesh Barbara Richardson presented her credentials to the President at Bangabhaban in the city Thursday, reports UNB. Iajuddin said Bangladesh, with active cooperation of the regional countries, have been playing a key role in promoting regional cooperation through its chairmanship of both SAARC and BIMSTEC. The President said Bangladesh and Canada are bound by the tradition of friendship, common democratic values, common heritage and cultural diversity as members of the Commonwealth Group of nations. He appreciated the role of the Canadian government for the significant support it has extended to the socio-economic development effort of Bangladesh through consistent generous assistance to the least developed countries (LDCs), especially to Bangladesh, and granting of trade privileges. Iajuddin expressed satisfaction at the Canadian government's encouragement of immigration and overseas studies from Bangladesh. He conveyed warm greetings to the Governor General of Canada Michaelle Jean. The newly appointed Canadian High Commissioner appreciated the role of Bangladesh for successfully holding the SAARC Summit and BIMSTEC ministerial meeting. Democracy has been flourishing in Bangladesh, she said and added that election is key to prosperity. High Commissioner Richardson emphasised on student exchange between the two countries. Foreign Secretary Hemayetuddin, Secretary to the President M Kamal Uddin Ahmed, Military Secretary to the President ANM Muniruzzaman, Press Secretary M Mukhlesur Rahman Chowdhury and senior officials of the Foreign Ministry and Canadian High Commission in Dhaka were present on the occasion.
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