Lanka's victory over terrorism, example to world - Bangladesh Finance Minister

Bangladesh Finance Minister Abul Maal Abdul Muhith has described President Mahinda Rajapaksa as a distinguished leader who saved his country from terrorism.

He said that the President's war victory over terrorism was a clear example to all other countries fighting against the threats of terrorism.

The Bangladesh Minister was addressing a group of leading Bangladeshi businessmen who met President Rajapaksa at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel yesterday.

The meeting had been arranged by the Bangladesh Commerce and Industrial Board.

The Minister also said that Sri Lanka had achieved much progress after defeating terrorism in the North and East.

He said that his aim was to develop the Bangladeshi economy by adopting the principles adopted by Sri Lanka.

Addressing the Business community, External Affairs Minister Prof G.L. Peiris said that the Mahinda Chinthana concept was a concept of broad meaning to develop the country and the people.

He said the assassination of Bangladesh Leader Shiek Mujibur Rahman was a clear example of the danger of terrorism.

The Minister pointed out that Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, have similar cultures with equal regards for religion, economy and cultural values.

The Bangladesh businessmen who participated in the talks showed a keen interest in investing in Sri Lanka.

Meanwhile Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr. Dipu Moni also had a meeting with President Mahinda Rajapaksa at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in Dhaka yesterday.

His talks with President Rajapaksa centred on further strengthening of bilateral relations. The Foreign Minister who was grateful for the President's visit to Bangladesh also congratulated Sri Lanka for defeating terrorism.

The Bangladeshi Foreign Minister recalled that Sri Lanka has been a good friend of Bangladesh for a long time.

Several books on Buddhist Philosophy written by Bangladeshi authors were presented to President Mahinda Rajapaksa on the occasion.