Proposal to set up Saarc parliament

During the 25-minute meeting, Prof Chowdhury placed an 11-point proposal to the Indian premier for strengthening the Saarc

(South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation)

The proposals included formation of a Saarc parliament like that of European parliament and enhancing cooperation among the member countries to eliminate terrorism and poverty from the region.

Manmohan Singh showed interest in Chowdhury's proposal for a Saarc parliament, said a Bikalpa Dhara press release.

The Indian premier said he would continue his endeavour to make the Saarc more effective in future.

Dr Singh invited B Chowdhury to visit India which was accepted by the former president.

Bikalpa Dhara Secretary General Major (Retd) Abdul Mannan, Organising Secretary Mahi B Chowdhury MP and Office Secretary Major (Retd) Nadir Ahmed accompanied Prof Chowdhury.

State Minister for External Affairs of India E Ahamed, Secretary of External Affairs Shyam Saran and Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Veena Sikri were present on the occasion.