Welcoming the ambassador, Iajuddin mentioned the existing relations of friendship and cooperation between Bangladesh and the Netherlands.

Appreciating Dutch assistance to economic development, he said that the Dutch government which developed an expertise in water management, could cooperate with Bangladesh in tackling the flood-related problems on a long-term basis.

Almost every year, flood caused damage to properties, roads, bridges, houses and crops as well as untold sufferings to the people, he said.

Iajuddin stressed wide trade relations between the two countries and appreciated Dutch aid programme in Bangladesh.

He said Bangladesh emerged as one of the largest contributors of troops to the United Nations peacekeeping operations.

Ambassador CSM Beemster Boer expressed his satisfaction at the existing friendly bilateral relations between the two countries.

He hoped that the relations would be diversified in future for common benefit of both the countries.

He said the government of the Netherlands would continue its assistance towards economic development of Bangladesh.

Earlier, on arrival at Bangabhaban, the ambassador was given a guard of honour by the President's Guard Regiment. He took salute and inspected the guard.

Foreign Secretary Shamsher Mobin Chowdhury, Military Secretary to the President Major General ANM Muniruzzaman and Secretary in charge to the President Md Abu Solaiman Chowdhury were present.