Editorial
Yet another step towards East
A new-look Dhaka-Hanoi ties
After China, Thailand and Myanmar, the government has found another ally in Vietnam in what could be described as its venture towards East. Prime Minister Khaleda Zia herself said to the Vietnamese Foreign Minister, Nguyen Dy Nien when he called on her that her government is trying to strengthen relations with all of Bangladesh's neighbours. The sign of a new found friendship between the two countries was evident from the formal opening of the Vietnamese Embassy in Dhaka during the FM's visit. It is an expression of friendship between two countries which have been champions of freedom struggles in this part of the world.There are quite a few things the two countries can exchange and share to their mutual benefit. For example, Vietnam's success stories in agriculture, aquaculture and horticulture can be replicated in Bangladesh. On the other hand, our literacy, immunisation and, above all, poverty alleviation programmes could interest Vietnam a great deal. And all these exchanges of experiences are poised to take place by virtue of the renewed bilateral ties between the two countries with the establishment of embassies. There is no doubt that Vietnam's support to Bangladesh for its membership in the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations would only strengthen the existing bilateral relationship. There is another aspect to Vietnam profile which could be of interest to us. The country has had something of a success in attracting FDIs. Maybe we can exchange notes with Vietnam on the subject to acquire a fuller understanding of the kind of policy incentives they had offered to attract foreign investors together with the areas identified for investment. One thing is for sure -- taking advantage of the strengths of two friendly countries would only mean prosperity, progress and better future for their peoples.
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