‘Bangabandhu, Mandela visionary leaders for humanity’

The visiting South African International Relations and Cooperation Minister Dr. Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor has said both Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Nelson Mandela were great visionary leaders for the humanity.

She said this visiting Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Memorial Museum on Thursday morning to pay tribute to Bangabandhu, a foreign ministry press release said here today.

At the museum, Dr Pandor signed the visitors’ book where she recognized the unparalleled dedication and sacrifices of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and also highlighted his values and ideals.

On her arrival, the South African foreign minister was received by Bir Prateek Lieutenant Col. (Retd.) Quazi Sajjad Ali Zahir and the officials of the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum.

She was briefed about the life and glorious historical role of the Father of the Nation in the national history of Bangladesh and his supreme sacrifice.

Dr Pandor paid a bilateral visit to Bangladesh after her engagements at IORA 21st Council of Ministers meetings in Dhaka.

Later, she called on her Bangladesh counterpart Dr. Abdul Momen, MP at State Guest House Padma in the capital.

During the meeting, the Bangladesh foreign minister proposed that there may be cooperation between the two countries n different areas of mutual interest, including agriculture and blue economy. He underlined the importance of high level visits and exchange of business delegations between the two countries.

Dr Momen requested the South African government to establish a diplomatic representation in Dhaka in order to facilitate consular and other cooperation. He particularly sought continued cooperation of South Africa in Rohingya repatriation issue as well as sought support for Bangladesh candidature at IMO.

Dr Pandor also underlined the importance of continuing cooperation between the two countries in trade, economy and other identified areas.