Bangladesh, Aug. 1 -- The National Consensus Commission has reached agreement with political parties on 19 key areas of state reform, although five issues drew formal notes of dissent.

After the final round of the commission's 23-day second-phase talks on Thursday, the commission's Vice-Chairman Ali Riaz said they aim to resolve the points of contention through dialogue.

Riaz said the parties had shown "sincerity and political will" towards implementing the July Charter's reform agenda.

He added, "Discussions have been held on the path to implementation. Political parties have requested the commission to stay engaged."

He noted that the commission would soon convene a press conference to outline next steps and a proposed roadmap for i...