Dhaka, Sep 01 (V7N)- Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Secretary Anda Philip paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Prime Minister's Office at the Secretariat on Tuesday.

During the meeting, Anda Philip said the Prime Minister's regular participation in sessions of the National Parliament sends a strong message about her commitment to parliamentary democracy.

She said she had reviewed the BNP's election manifesto and praised its proposed initiatives in education and community-based programs.

The IPU secretary also welcomed what she described as progress in parliamentary democracy in Bangladesh. She said continued progress in this area would help strengthen public confidence in state institutions and the democratic system.

Anda Philip said the IPU is interested in expanding the exchange of experiences and cooperation with Bangladesh's Parliament. She expressed hope that the participation of the Speaker of the Bangladesh Parliament in the 153rd IPU Conference in Tanzania would further strengthen relations between the IPU and the Bangladesh Parliament.

Women's empowerment was also discussed during the meeting. Referring to her meetings with young and women members of Parliament, Anda Philip said they were energetic and enthusiastic about their work.

In response, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said the government was pleased to have restored democracy in Bangladesh after a long struggle.

She said BNP had fought for democracy for many years and alleged that during this period, many party leaders and activists had faced disappearances, killings and false cases.

Tarique Rahman said BNP had played a role in restoring both multi-party and parliamentary democracy in the country. Although challenges remain, she said the government remains optimistic and firmly committed to democracy.

According to the Prime Minister, sustainable development and progress can only be ensured through an effective and strong democratic system.

She also said women's empowerment is one of the government's priorities, adding that plans are being considered to provide free education for women up to the honours level as well as stipends for female students.

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