In a fresh bld to bring the BNP back to the Jatlya Sangsad, the ruling Awami l-eague has invited the main opposition party for a dialogue.

Telecommunications Minister Mohammad Nasim told The Daily Star last night that he was eagerly awaiting a response from the BNP to the Awami League's fresh offer for a dialogue he communicated on Monday night

"1 telephoned BNP Secretary General Abdul Mannan Bhuiyan inviting his party to return to the House and sit for a dialogue with a view to resolving the political crisis.' said Nasim, who is also Ab's Organising Secretary. Mannan Bhuiyan assured him of calling back after discussing the matter in the party, "but I'm yet to receive any response/ Nasim added.

The ruling party's offer for a

dialogue was made ahead of the Sangsad s winter session, due to begin on January 14.

When contacted last night. Mannan Bhuiyan admitted receipt of the invitation for a dialogue and said he had suggested the ruling party negotiator to contact Khandakar Delwar Hossain. Chief Whip of the Opposition.

Replying to a question, the BNP Secretary General said he did not call back Nasim till late last night

Khandakar Delwar was not available for comment

Nasim, however, did not contact Delwar