For all latest news, follow The Financial Express Google News channel.
Norway on Tuesday said it remains a “steadfast partner” in promoting transparency, accountability and justice, and is committed to supporting Bangladesh in building a ‘more equitable and resilient’ society.
State Secretary for International Development of Norway Stine Renate Håheim met Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain separately and their discussion covered a range of areas, including democracy, human rights and women’s rights.
The humanitarian situation of over one million Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh was also discussed, reports UNB.
State Secretary Håheim is currently on a two-day visit to Bangladesh.
She is scheduled to visit the Rohingya camps in Cox’s Bazar on Wednesday to gain firsthand insight into the ongoing humanitarian needs and challenges.
In her meeting with Prof Yunus, she reiterated Norway’s strong commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s interim government during this crucial transition period.
During the meeting with Foreign Adviser at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, State Secretary Håheim laid emphasis on deepening bilateral cooperation between Bangladesh and Norway.
She reaffirmed Norway’s support for the interim government and commended its efforts to maintain stability and implement democratic reforms.
Håheim also praised Bangladesh for its continued generosity in hosting a large number of Rohingyas from Myanmar.
Foreign Adviser Hossain expressed his appreciation for Norway’s longstanding development assistance and its growing engagement in Bangladesh’s private sector.
He stressed the need for greater international burden-sharing and called for a sustainable resolution to the Rohingya crisis, including the early repatriation of forcibly displaced Rohingyas to Myanmar, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Foreign Adviser also underscored the importance of Bangladesh’s vibrant and rapidly growing youth population in shaping the country’s future - through fostering innovation, driving economic growth, and strengthening democratic resilience.
Both the Adviser and the State Secretary highlighted the need to maintain close cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual interest, reaffirming their commitment to working together to address contemporary challenges.