The German ambassador, Holger Michael, met with President Zillur Rahman on Wednesday, conveying friendly greetings from the German president to the people of Bangladesh. In a letter of credence, German President Horst Kohler emphasized the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Germany and Bangladesh. Ambassador Michael praised Bangladesh's progress in fighting poverty, while also recognizing the country's challenges, including climate change, according to the German embassy's statement. He mentioned that Germany remains a significant development partner for Bangladesh and expressed optimism about the potential for increased trade and investment between the two countries. The envoy emphasized the commitment to expanding trade links and supporting efforts to enhance democracy and human rights in Bangladesh. He also commended Bangladesh for its positive role in international politics. Michael expressed Germany's backing for Bangladesh's initiatives in enhancing regional cooperation and stability in South Asia, its involvement in UN peacekeeping missions, and its representation of the Least Developed Countries group. Before his posting in Dhaka, Michael held the position of Trade Promotion chief at the Federal Foreign Office. He previously served as deputy head of mission in Bangkok and Hong Kong, and had assignments in Korea, Nicaragua, and Turkey.