Desk Report: Algerian Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr. Abdelouahab Saidani paid a courtesy call on Jatiya Sangsad Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, Bir Bikram, at his office on Sunday, underscoring growing diplomatic engagement between the two countries.
During the meeting, the Speaker highlighted that Bangladesh and Algeria are poised to achieve greater joint progress, building on longstanding people-to-people connections and shared cultural ties. He noted that Algeria’s support for Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly has further strengthened the friendly relations between the two nations.
Hafiz Uddin Ahmed also reflected on Bangladesh’s recent political developments, stating that democracy had faced significant challenges during the past 16 years. He alleged that suppression of opposition parties and extrajudicial actions had undermined democratic institutions. The Speaker paid tribute to former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, describing her role in the struggle for democratic restoration as historically significant. He added that the latest parliamentary elections marked a return of democratic rights to the public through their active participation.
The Algerian Ambassador, in response, commended Bangladesh for holding what he described as a free and fair national election, noting that both the government and people of Algeria have appreciated the democratic process.
The two sides exchanged views on expanding cooperation in key sectors, including sports, technical assistance, shipbuilding, garment exports, education, and energy. Emphasizing the need for deeper institutional collaboration, the Speaker proposed the formation of a parliamentary friendship group with Algeria and called for increased exchanges of parliamentary delegations.
Officials from the Algerian Embassy and senior members of the Bangladesh National Parliament Secretariat were also present at the meeting.