Dhaka, Dec. 14 -- Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Sunday reiterated the interim government's initiative to secure Bangladesh's membership in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the 11-member regional bloc that has emerged as a major global economic and trade force.

He expressed optimism that Thailand would support Bangladesh's membership bid. In the process, Bangladesh already floated its bid to become a Sectoral Dialogue Partner of ASEAN.

"We take it very seriously. It will connect South Asia with Southeast Asia," he said, referring to Bangladesh's planned ASEAN membership.

Prof Yunus made the remarks when newly appointed Ambassador of Thailand to Bangladesh Thithiporn Chirasawadi paid a courtesy call on him the S...