European Union Chief Election Observer Ivars Ijabs paid a courtesy call on Bangladesh Jatiya Sangsad Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad at his office in Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Sunday.

During the meeting, the Speaker said the 13th Jatiya Sangsad election has created a new opportunity for strengthening democracy in Bangladesh.

He expressed optimism that the current Parliament would effectively reflect and fulfill the aspirations of the people.

Referring to past leadership, he noted that former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia had set a notable example in reinforcing parliamentary democracy and promoting women’s participation in national policymaking, according to a press release.

The Speaker also observed that despite ideological differences, political parties in Bangladesh often work together during national crises, which he described as a positive aspect of parliamentary democracy.

Discussions during the meeting also focused on Bangladesh’s transition from a Least Developed Country (LDC) to a middle-income economy.

Both sides exchanged views on post-LDC trade challenges, including duty-free access to European markets and the potential for a free trade agreement with the European Union.

They further discussed women’s representation in Parliament and the proportional inclusion of ethnic minority communities in the national legislature.

The Speaker emphasized the importance of forming parliamentary friendship groups with EU member states and increasing exchange visits between delegations to strengthen cooperation and mutual understanding.

The meeting was attended by the EU Ambassador to Bangladesh, members of the visiting delegation and senior officials from the Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat.