UK keen to enhance bilateral trade with Bangladesh

The United Kingdom (UK) on Monday showed interest to enhance bilateral trade and investment with Bangladesh as its High Commissioner Sarah Cooke paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at her official Ganabhaban residence in the capital.

"The UK will continue its cooperation in Bangladesh's efforts for its overall development particularly in women education," PM's Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim quoted Cooke as saying in a media briefing after the meeting.

According to Karim, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina put stress on Rohingya repatriation at the meeting, saying, it would be better for Bangladesh as early as the Rohingya repatriation will take place.

"International community's due attention to the Rohingya issue will expedite the repatriation of the Myanmar nationals," she hoped.

The premier expressed caution that the prolonged stay of the Rohingyas could increase social problems in Coxsbazar region further.

The UK envoy said the Rohingya repatriation will be expedited if the issue remains on the international spotlight.

She focused on providing education to the Rohingyas and imparting them with skilled development trainings so they can be re-employed after returning to their homeland, Myanmar.

The meeting also featured various issues such as bilateral relations, security, climate change and regional matter.

The meeting expressed satisfaction over the existing bilateral relations between Bangladesh and the UK and hoped to consolidate the relationship further.