M Mushfiqul Fazal, White House Correspondent
The United States obviously committed to taking actions that are consistent with its values and that recognize a basic respect for human rights as a prerequisite for peace and security for prosperity, said John Kirby, the NSC coordinator for strategic communications.
Expressing concern over the security of US ambassador in Dhaka Peter D Haas, John Kirby said, “We’re obviously committed to taking actions that are consistent with our values and that recognize a basic respect for human rights as a prerequisite for peace and security for prosperity. So look as an element of our bilateral relationship, it broader more broadly speaking, we have and will continue to raise human rights with our Bangladesh counterparts.”
John Kirby made the remarks at a virtual briefing on Wednesday in reply to a question over U.S. ambassador obstruction on a visit to missing opposition activist Sajedul Islam’s house, who went missing since 4 December 2013.
In the briefing, White House correspondent Mushfiqul Fazal asked questions on Bangladesh issues, including ambassador Peter D Haas’s security concern.
It is to be noted that Peter D Haas visited the house of missing opposition activist Sajedul Islam today. He arrived at the BNP leader’s house a little after 9:00am and stayed there for half an hour.
The US embassy spokesperson said the envoy left the home without ending the meeting due to security concerns and they have informed the high level of the government. Local leaders and activists of Awami League and people from the so called organization Mayer Kanna had taken position on streets in front of our house 40 minutes before the US envoy arrived. There was chaos in front of the house while Peter Haas was getting into his car.
Mentioning Bangladesh government, John Kirby said, “Of course, we’re concerned about the security of our ambassador and you're right. That meeting was cut short because of security concerns, and we raised our concerns specifically about his security to the highest levels. Of the Bangladeshi Government and the larger issue.”
Emphasizing on the rights of civil society, freedom press and next general election, he said, “Certainly when we have concerns about developments that are making it tougher for media to report and an independent fashion more for civil society to exist and to be able to promote and advance their concerns, as well as for the conduct of the conduct of free and fair elections.”
These are fundamental values that the United States raises around the world, said John Kirby adding that “And we’ll continue to do that in Bangladesh.”
MN/
