Foreign minister AK Abdul Momen on Monday said that the US was a super power and that they could not be ignored.
He said that the US did not want much and they only want free and fair elections in Bangladesh. ‘We also want free and fair elections. Rather, I would tell them to bring those under the US visa policy who are trying to foil the election.’
The minister made the remarks at a press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka on Monday.
Momen said that the US was always a realistic country and it believed in the doctrine of reality, and when things were done, the US extended support to that.
He said that Bangladesh Awami League did not like creating barriers to democratic journey. ‘We believe in democracy. We don’t want to hinder democratic process.’
He said that they wanted to show the world that elections could be held in a free and fair manner and free from violence.
‘We hope all parties will take part in the polls and a festive mood prevails across the country,’ said the foreign minister.
Responding to a question, Momen said that Bangladesh welcomed constructive suggestions that go in line with people’s welfare.
‘Our friendly countries give us recommendations and we welcome those suggestions if they play a supportive role,’ he said.
Regarding violence free polls, he said that it required sincerity and willingness from all.
Momen said that they could not ignore the developed countries. ‘We do consider them with a lot of respect and honour.’
‘The US is a superpower, we can’t ignore them,’ the minister said.
He said the next election would be seen as participatory if people cast their votes. Usually, 50 per cent voters cast their vote in Bangladesh, he added.
Responding to a question on RAB, Momen said that RAB was a very dignified organisation and people respected it as it was free from corruption.
‘It is a very effective organisation. We uprooted terrorism due to the presence of RAB while drug and human trafficking saw a sharp decline,’ he said, adding that they are very smart because they are well trained by the US and Britain. ‘They will do better if they are given training again.’
‘The US is a mature government and we are always hopeful that sanctions on the elite force will be withdrawn.’
Responding to a question, Momen said that they were not feeling any pressure ahead of the next polls.
