"Bangladeshi cuisine has occupied an important role in the United Kingdom. Other European countries are also gradually becoming attracted to it," the high commissioner told at a cooking competition.

One of the main reasons for my coming to Bangladesh instead of going to other countries is my love for Bangladeshi foods, especially the Hilsha dishes, he said speaking at the function as special guest at Dhaka Sheraton Hotel on Wednesday, says a press statement.

The first-ever countrywide cooking competition for purely Bangladeshi cuisine titled 'Monitor Chef of the Year 2005' was organised by The Bangladesh Monitor in cooperation with Dhaka Sheraton Hotel, Emirates Airline, Square Consumer Products Ltd, Spices and Bangladesh Edible Oil Limited.

Civil Aviation and Tourism Secretary Iqbaluddin Ahmed Chaudhury attended the function as chief guest.

The competition, held under two categories professional and amateur, was participated by more than 2000 competitors from all over the country.