Dhaka, July 27 -- Bangladesh's political parties have reached consensus on a dozen major reform issues despite failing to agree on changes to the state's guiding principles.

On Sunday, after the 19th day of second-phase talks between political parties and the National Consensus Commission, Vice-President Ali Riaz said they hope to conclude the talks by Jul 31.

The agreements will form the basis of a National Charter or July Charter, Riaz said, noting that a preliminary draft will be sent to all participating political parties on Monday for feedback.

Earlier in the day, Riaz clarified that the draft charter would not be debated separately during the ongoing dialogue.

"If any fundamental objections arise, we'll bring it to discussion. O...