Italy one of our dependable friends

The visiting Prime Minister of Italy Prof Romano Prodi made a courtesy call on President Shahabuddin Ahmed at Bangabhaban yesterday, reports UNB.

Welcoming the Italian Prime Minister, President Shahabuddin termed his visit "very significant" as it is the first ever official visit to Bangladesh by an Italian head of the government.

He said Italy was among one of the first countries who recognised Bangladesh and the relation between the two countries has grown over the years since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1972.

Both Bangladesh and Italy have excellent bilateral relations and the visit of Romano Prodi would further strengthen the existing ties between the two countries, he added.

President Shahabuddin observed that Bangladesh and Italy have cooperative relations in various international fora and both the countries have similarity of views on major global issues.

"Bangladesh considers Italy as one of her dependable friends," he said adding that Italy is one of the largest export destinations for Bangladeshi products like garments, frozen foods and leather goods in Europe.

Stressing much on strengthening commercial relations between Bangladesh and Italy, the President said there is scope for further expansion of trade between the two countries.

In this context, the President pointed out the government policy of market economy adding that the Italian investors may be encouraged to invest in Bangladesh.

He also outlined some of the steps taken by the government for alleviation of poverty and empowerment of women.

Prime Minister Prof Romano Prodi appreciated the warm hospitality of the people of Bangladesh and the government shown to him and the members of his entourage.

He hoped that his fruitful discussions with the Bangladesh Prime Minister would yield positive results for the benefit of the peoples of both the countries.

Members of the entourage, Bangladesh Ambassador to Italy and Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh were, among others, present on the occasion.