DHAKA: The ten-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) officially formed its ‘Dhaka Committee’ to open a new dimension in building relationship with Bangladesh.

Through a program joining by ministers, politicians, diplomats, businessmen, and officials of the foreign ministry, the committee began its journey on Wednesday.

Malaysian High Commissioner Norlin Othman to Dhaka was made the chairman of the committee and the new chairman will be elected from diplomats of the member countries.

Foreign ministry officials in Dhaka think this is probably a positive sign to Bangladesh making a member of ‘Dialogue Partner to ASEAN’, which is one of Asia`s economic powerhouses.

All ASEAN countries, except Cambodia and Laos have missions in Dhaka. The countries are Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Brunei and Philippines.

Earlier, High Commissioners of seven countries met Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali and informed about the formation of Dhaka Committee.

Bangladesh has already become a member of ASEAN Regional forum (ARF). The forum usually works to establish regional peace and stability.

BDST: 1538 HRS, APR 03, 2014