Australian FM arrives Feb 10

Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer arrives in the city on February 10 on a two-day official visit, reports UNB.

He will hold official talks with Foreign Minister Abdus Samad Azad on bilateral issues mainly on trade and economic cooperation.

Regional and international issues may also come up during the talks on February 10.

Bilateral trade between the two countries is heavily inclined for Australia. According to official figures, Australian annual exports to Bangladesh is recorded around 250 million Australian dollar against Bangladesh's export of only about 35 millions Australian dollar.

Australian exports mainly powder milk, chemicals and wheat while Bangladesh exports cane furniture, ready-made garments and tea.

During his brief stay, Alexander Downer will make courtesy call on President Shahabuddin Ahmed and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on February 11.

He is expected to visit some Australia-aided projects and give cheques to Dental College and ICDDR,B.