In January this year Bangladesh experienced a smooth transition to Democracy as the former Caretaker Government handed over power to the elected government of Prime Minister Shaikh Hasina and the Awami League, which came to power with an overwhelming mandate. The 9th Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament) elections were held on the 29th of December 2008 in a most peaceful and orderly manner. The Election Commission had digitally enrolled over 80 million voters in the preceding two years. This ensured a most fair, free and credible parliamentary election. In a festive display of participatory Democracy an unprecedented number of voters – over 87 per cent – cast their voters among whom there were 41 million women voters and 39 million male voters. This was a milestone that has given a clear indication that the people of Bangladesh wish to promote parliamentary democratic development and want good governance in the country.

The new government of Prime Minister Shaikh Hasina soon after assuming office initiated steps to restore confidence in all the major institutions of state such as the Parliament, the independent judiciary and the government. One of the first steps taken by the new government was to announce that the ordinances promulgated by the Caretaker Government would not be given blanket ratification but would be discussed by the Parliament and judiciously appraised in the national interest to ensure rule of law and conform to constitutional norms. This has sent a clear message of confidence in the democratic institutions of the country notably the national parliament.
Another important step taken by the new government has been to strengthen market confidence by ensuring smooth supply and distribution of essentials. Bringing down the cost of agricultural inputs particularly fertilizer has also had a calming influence on the market. Thus the price of essentials has come down significantly. 

 In foreign policy, the new government continues the long tradition of friendship and goodwill towards all countries especially our regional neighbors.  Bangladesh and Pakistan are bound by close ties of history, culture and tradition. The two countries have maintained warm and friendly relations over the years and co-operation between the two countries has been growing steadily in various fields including trade, defense, education and culture over the past few years.

The two countries share identical views on major international issues. This allows the diplomats and officials of our countries to interact and closely cooperate at the UN and other international and regional forums.  In SAARC, the two countries are making determined efforts to create a congenial atmosphere for development in South Asia in collaboration with other countries in the region.

 In one of her earliest speeches the Prime Minister proposed the formation of a regional Task Force to combat terrorism and extremism in order to promote greater security and safety in the region. It is envisaged that such an initiative would be vital in assisting the member governments to co-operate in exchanging information which would prevent cross border as well as internal anti-state groups to operate in the area.

 Although Bangladesh and Pakistan have maintained excellent bilateral relations the present volume of bilateral trade does not fully reflect the potential since there is much more room for collaboration to further enhance bilateral trade and investment. We need to make determined efforts to realize the prospects and try to explore the possibilities of developing strategic business partnerships in various fields of mutual interest and for mutual benefits.

Bangladesh enjoys duty free access to European Union, Canada, Australia and New Zealand for virtually all products including apparel. It also enjoys preferential access to the US market. Pakistani entrepreneurs can take advantage of this by setting up industries in Bangladesh either independently or in collaboration with Bangladeshi businessmen. The improved business atmosphere, a skilled workforce, and assured market access for Bangladeshi products should encourage Pakistani businessmen to take advantage of these opportunities. Thus Bangladesh-Pakistan Joint Business Council and Chambers in both countries have a role in promoting trade and investments.

The other important agenda is to enhance people-to-people contact. Better interaction among students, professionals and professional bodies, researchers and scientific institutions, artistes, journalists and the media  can play a significant role in taking our relations forward to greater understanding and friendship in the years ahead.

A vibrant civil society and dynamic private sector characterizes Bangladesh’s determination to carry out economic development and social progress. In the last few decades, Bangladesh has experienced tremendous socio- economic transformation. Notable among them is the silent revolution leading to women’s empowerment, poverty alleviation and social development through extensive micro-credit programs , spread of education, and better health care. The effective roles of the NGOs and civil society in advancing the development agenda is also being duly acknowledged.

With the successful holding of the national elections and a popular democratic government in office it is hoped that democratic institutions will be further strengthened. We are confident that our government will continue to focus on pro-poor policies and balanced economic growth, and will be fully committed to the principles of good governance.

In conclusion I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the Government and the people of Pakistan for their warmth and friendship towards Bangladesh. I strongly believe that the bond of friendship that exists between the countries must be further strengthened in the days to come in the true spirit of mutual interest and benefits.

 May Almighty Allah bless us all.