Bangladesh Archbishop meets prime minister for Christmas

(December 19, 2011) In Bangladesh the archbishop of Dhaka led a Catholic Church delegation on Sunday to convey Christmas greetings to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and forge better cooperation between Church and state. Archbishop Patrick D’Rozario, who assumed office on October 22 told UCANEWS he felt it was necessary to meet the prime minister after taking the reins of Dhaka archdiocese. He said the courtesy visit was important not only to pass on Christmas greetings to her but also to let her know what role he can play in the country as head of Bangladesh’s only metropolitan archdiocese. Archbishop D’Rozario said he made suggestions to the prime minister on issues of interreligious dialogue, eradication of poverty and extending basic primary education. Among the delegates were Auxiliary Bishop Theotonius Gomes of Dhaka, Catholic Education Board secretary Holy Cross Brother Harold Bijoy Rodrigues and retired Major General of the army Mr. John Gomes. Archbishop D’Rozario also sought assistance in the launch of the first Church-run university in the country. Hasina reciprocated the Christmas greetings and assured the prelate the government would help with the university. She also pledged the government’s effort to ensure complete religious freedom.