UNB, Dhaka :
International Republican Institute (IRI) President Mark Green said IRI, a world reputed think tank, at Washington DC, is ready to extend any possible help in support of strengthening democracy in Bangladesh.
Appreciating the economic and social successes in Bangladesh, Green said Bangladesh is very close to be considered for the threshold programme under Millennium Challenge Account.
The IRI chief, who is also a top policymaker in the Millennium Challenge Corporation, said Bangladesh is on the rise and its people believe in democracy.
He made the remarks when Bangladesh Ambassador to the United States Mohammad Ziauddin met him on Thursday, said a media note received here from Washington on Friday.
Ambassador Ziauddin and IRI President Ambassador Green discussed among others, possibility of Bangladesh’s inclusion to the Millennium Challenge Account, democracy, human rights, transparency, anti-corruption and counter-terrorism etc.
The diplomat said the people of Bangladesh are secular; traditionally people from all religions live here in peace and harmony. In this
connection, he informed that the present government under the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina vowed zero tolerance against any form of religious extremism and terrorism.
Bangladesh is working closely with its neighbors, the United States and other friendly countries to eliminate terrorism and extremism, he added.
Ambassador Ziauddin informed the IRI President about the massive advancement of the IT sector in Bangladesh. Ambassador Green welcomed Ziauddin to the United States and assured him of all out support during his stay in the United States.
Muhammad Abdul Muhith, Deputy Chief of Mission and Nayem Uddin Ahmed, Counselor Political of the Embassy accompanied the Ambassador during the meeting.
