British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke on Sunday said her country is encouraging “free, fair, participatory and peaceful” elections in Bangladesh. She said fair elections will help Bangladeshi citizens exercise their democratic rights. Read:  UN expresses desire to see a fair, peaceful election in Bangladesh: Obaidul Quader  “We had a very constructive introductory discussion,” High Commissioner Cooke told reporters after her first meeting with Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal and his team. She said they discussed the vital roles of strong democratic institutions, media, and civil society. The British high commissioner said they also discussed the role of independent observers during the election. Talking to reporters, the CEC said High Commissioner Cooke wanted to know the Election Commission’s efforts for ensuring that journalists can work freely. Read: UK keen to boost trade and investment with Bangladesh: Sarah Cooke tells PM Hasina He said the media raised the demand regarding the use of motorcycles.  The CEC said they were considering whether it would be misused or not.  Some — using muscle power— might create problems, taking advantage of motorcycle use. “Keeping that in mind, we made a provision,” said the CEC. Read: I’m committed to deepening Bangladesh-UK extensive cooperation: Sarah Cooke At the meeting, Election Commissioner Anisur Rahman and EC Secretary Md. Jahangir Alam were also present. Bangladesh Election Commission is taking preparations to hold the next national election in December this year or January next year.

British Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for Girls Education Helen Grant is now visiting Bangladesh to learn about the experiences of girls and the challenges they have faced in accessing quality education. Helen, who is here for the first time, will be visiting Sylhet on Tuesday as part of her three-day visit. "I’m here to meet civil society partners, education leaders, and most importantly Bangladeshi women and girls to learn about their experiences and the challenges they’ve faced in accessing quality education," Helen tweeted. Also read: Inclusive politics essential for every country’s prosperity: British Minister

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Robert Chatterton Dickson paid a visit to Kalyanpur slum in the city on Saturday, where British-Dutch multinational FMCG company Unilever has set up a community toilet -- WASH Centre -- for the 8,000-odd residents in collaboration with an NGO.

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Robert Chatterton Dickson on Sunday said research and innovation are key drivers for prosperity and sustainability, noting that international collaboration is vital.

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Robert Chatterton Dickson on Sunday went to BNP’s Dhaka South City Corporation polls candidate Ishraque Hossain and discussed various issues relating to the February-1 polls.