Dhaka: The United Kingdom on Friday highly appreciated Bangladesh’s tremendous economic progress and changes, saying it will continue to work together to maintain the strong friendship between the two countries. 

‘I’m very inspired to see on the ground the tremendous change and progress this country made,’ said UK Minister of State Mark Field adding that he would discuss how they can continue very strong friendship between the two countries, reports the UNB.

The Minister for State, who takes care of Asia and the Pacific issues at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, was talking to a small group of reporters, including the UNB correspondent, at the British High Commissioner’s residence in the city.

UK Special Envoy for Gender Equality Joanna Roper was, among others, present.

Mark Field, who arrived early Friday, said he will continue to build strong political link with his counterparts as there is ‘huge amount to work and collaboration between the two countries’.

He wished Bangladesh all the best in the coming national election with an expectation that there will be a ‘free, fair and participatory’ election.

The Minister of State hoped Bangladeshi people will have pool of possible choice of candidates, and there will be full political debate about the future of this country.

The British Minister of State said he has tried to speak to BNP representatives in London about a fully participatory election.

He said a participatory election is in the interest of Bangladesh and it is also in the interest of all parties provided Bangladesh electoral law that allows de-registration of a political party amid two consecutive terms of non-participation.

The British Minister hoped that all parties will play their part in holding a participatory election.