Dhaka, July 2 -- Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni on Thursday dismissed the idea that government and the opposition were engaged in a "friendly game" during the budget session of Parliament, insisting that the relationship is based on constructive democratic engagement rather than political convenience.

"There is no game here - no friendly game," he told reporters at a press conference at the LD Hall of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban while reviewing the budget session.

His remarks came in response to questions following comments by a ruling party MP, who during budget debate had likened the atmosphere in Parliament to a "friendly match" between football stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

"Messi and Ronaldo play football. There is no such ...