Fischer's visit cements ties

His characterisation of Bangladesh as the third largest Muslim majority country with a democratic political system having a vibrant civil society and an independent press shows the high esteem in which Germany holds Bangladesh. We appreciate the words of praise that the German foreign minister had for our country, particularly for our part against 'war on terror' as well as for our role in the SAARC and UN peace-keeping operations.

Germany is one of our trusted friends and there is a long history of diplomatic and economic relationship between the two countries. We are a big recipient of German aid, particularly her technical assistance. She remains a thriving market for our exports.

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Insofar as international issues are concerned there is an accord of views on most of them. In particular, our full commitment to the UN as being the sole arbiter in all conflictive international issues, as well as to multilaterlism, found resonance in German pronouncements in the UN.

Germany has been playing a most significant role in the UN, particularly in the Security Council, in the run-up to the US-UK invasion of Iraq. Germany's role has been one of a balancing influence in the war in Iraq and afterwards which prevented the USA and the UK steamrollering some resolutions in the Council.

In the light of the experience of the Iraq invasion and its aftermath we fully appreciate the statements of the two foreign ministers on the urgent need for reforming the UN, particularly the Security Council.

An institution such as the UN, built on the consensus of nations of the world cannot afford the luxury of veto power of the permanent five, a prerogative that we consider unjust. If we are to build a global order based on justice and fairplay, the process of decision-making at the UN Security Council must be freed from the threat of veto.