President Abdul Hamid on Monday said Bangladesh gives importance to developing relationships with neighbouring countries, including Afghanistan. 

He made the remarks when outgoing Afghan Ambassador to Bangladesh Abdul Qayoom Malikzad paid a courtesy call on him. President's Press Secretary Joynal Abedin briefed reporters after the meeting.

Hamid said Afghanistan can use Bangladesh's experience in women empowerment, basic education, healthcare, sanitation and human resource development.

Also read: Bangladesh offers support to Afghanistan for development

The President also praised Afghanistan's recent efforts to establish democracy. 

He said 2021 is a year of great joy and pride for Bangladesh. This year, Bangladesh is celebrating the golden jubilee of independence and the birth centenary of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman together.

Besides, this year, Bangladesh has received the final recommendation of the United Nations to become a developing country. 

The President put emphasis on joint ventures between the government and the private sector to enhance trade and investment relations between Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

Malikzad thanked the President for his cooperation during his tenure in Bangladesh.

Meanwhile, the newly-appointed Ambassador of Bangladesh to Spain Mohammad Sarwar Mahmud also called on the President at Bangabhaban.

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President Hamid mentioned the contribution of expatriates to the socio-economic development of Bangladesh during the meeting. 

He said that the concerned will have to accelerate diplomatic efforts to solve any problem caused by the coronavirus and prioritise the welfare of the expatriates.

The President advised the newly-appointed Ambassador to take effective initiatives to expand bilateral relations as well as boosting trade and investment.

Mahmud sought the guidance and overall cooperation of the President in discharging his duties.

President's Press Secretary Joynal Abedin, Military Secretary Major General SM Salahuddin Islam and Secretary (attached) Wahidul Islam Khan were present on the occasion.