The envoys of Pakistan, Egypt, Vatican city and Srilanka on Thursday presented their credentials to President Mohammed Shahabuddin at Bangabhaban.

The envoys are - High Commissioner of Pakistan Syed Ahmed Maroof, Egyptian ambassador Omar Mohie Eldin Ahmed Fahmy, Apostolic Nuncio in Bangladesh of Vatican city Kevin Randal and Srilankan high commissioner Dharmapala Weerakkody.

On arrival at Bangabhaban in the morning, a smart contingent of the Presidential Guard Regiment gave them a guard of honour.

President Shahabuddin welcomed the new ambassadors and said Bangladesh belives in the principle of "Friendship with all, malice towards none" Bangladesh and gives importance to development of relations with all countries of the world.

The president said that in the last decade and a half, the country has seen great progress in various sectors including communication, infrastructure development, women's empowerment and ICT.

He also termed Bangladesh as a role model for women's empowerment and development.

He said the active co-operation of the people, the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the co-operation of friendly countries have contributed positively to this development.

President Shahabuddin hoped that the new envoys will make every effort to increase bilateral co-operation with Bangladesh on various issues including trade and investment.

The new envoys praised Bangladesh's financial and social development including women's empowerment during the meeting.

They also expressed their determination to work for the development of the relations of their respective countries with Bangladesh.

The new envoys sought the president's full cooperation in fulfilling their duties.

President's office secretary Sampad Barua, military secretary Major General SM Salah Uddin Islam, press secretary Joynal Abedin and Secretary ( attached) Md Wahidul Islam Khan and senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were present.