M Mushfiqul Fazal, State Department correspondent
The United States has said that they are closely monitoring developments in Bangladesh leading up to the elections.
‘It’s important for free and fair elections that all stakeholders are able to participate peacefully,’ spokesperson at the US Department of State, Mathew Miller, said while replying to queries from journalist M Mushfiqul Fazal on ongoing political situation of Bangladesh on Monday.
That includes, he said, government officials, law enforcement, political parties, the Election Commission, the media, and of course voters themselves.
‘And we will continue to call on all stakeholders to respect the rule of law and to refrain from violence, harassment, and intimidation,’ said the State Department spokesperson.
In reply to another question, State Department spokesperson Miller said that under the Vienna Convention, Bangladesh had obligations to take all appropriate steps to protect diplomatic mission premises and personnel.
The United States values its relationship with Bangladesh, he said, adding that ‘we expect the government will take all appropriate actions to maintain the safety and security of all US missions and diplomatic personnel in the country.’
FH/
