Dhaka, Feb 19 – Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has invited her Dutch counterpart Mark Rutte to visit Bangladesh for launching the Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 here this year.Foreign Secretary Md Shahidul Haque handed over an invitation letter to David van Week, Adviser on Foreign Policy and Defence to the Dutch Prime Minister, during a meeting at the latter’s office in The Hague on Monday.
In her letter, the Prime Minister sought continued Dutch support for implementation of the Delta Plan, said the Foreign Ministry here.
Referring to Dutch assistance in formulating the Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100, Sheikh Hasina invited the Dutch Prime Minister for his presence in Dhaka for ceremonial launching of the Plan at a mutually convenient time this year.
Thanking Bangladesh for its support for the Dutch non-permanent membership to the UNSC for the current term (2017-2018), the Dutch PM’s adviser briefed the Foreign Secretary about the Dutch priorities during their upcoming chairmanship of the UNSC in March.
He appreciated Bangladesh’s role as one of the top troop and police contributing countries in UN peacekeeping.
David van Week emphasised on enhancing capabilities for the peacekeepers, including future cooperation in the areas of UN peacekeeping operations and prevention of conflicts at large.
The Foreign Secretary briefed him on the Rohingya issue and sought Dutch support in the UN Security Council and other forums for early resolution of the crisis.
They also exchanged views on other issues of mutual interests, including the need for renewed initiative for enhancing trade and investment between the two countries.
Foreign Secretary Shahidul Haque unveiled the foundation of a Language Monument (Shaheed Minar) at Zuiderpark in presence of the Deputy Mayor of The Hague, Rabin Baldewsingh.
Members of the Bangladesh community in the Netherlands were also present at the historic event in the City of Peace and Justice symbolising the true spirit of Ekushey to the international community.
Later, the Foreign Secretary held a meeting with the Deputy Mayor at the City Hall and discussed about construction of the Shaheed Minar.
The Deputy Mayor also hosted a lunch in honour of the Foreign Secretary, which was attended by Ambassadors from South and South East Asian as well as European countries. – UNB
