Bangladesh a tolerant society: Crowley

The American Bangladesh Friendship Society organised the reception ceremony at a hotel, attended by ministers, diplomats, businesspeople and expatriate Bangladeshis.

Both Bangladesh and the United States of America have democracy and a thriving society, said Crowley, chairman of Congressional Caucus on Bangladesh.

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"Bangladesh is a tolerant society. Bangladesh is a democracy," he said, adding that US-Bangladesh relationship needs to be maintained at all levels -- people to people and government to government.

Speaking as chief guest, Finance Minister M Saifur Rahman said Bangladesh is a liberal democracy and it believes in the rule of law, fundamental rights and human rights.

Describing the USA as an important partner for economic development, Saifur said both Bangladesh and the USA have democracy, good governance, human rights and the rule of law.

He mentioned the US support for the country's development ventures, especially in the rural electrification.

Harry K Thomas, US ambassador in Bangladesh, said both Bangladesh and the USA have democracy and free press.

He said both Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and late president Ziaur Rahman have worked for independence and democracy.

Communications Minister Nazmul Huda said Bangladesh and the USA share the same values of freedom of speech, human rights and the rule of law.

Education Minister Dr. Osman Farruk, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Mir Mohammad Nasiruddin, State Minister for Education ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon, Deputy Minister for CHT Affairs Moni Swapan Dewan, Editorial Board Chairman of Daily Ittefaq Barrister Mainul Hosein and Friendship Society President Golam Mehraj were also present.

Later, artistes performed folk dances at the reception ceremony.