The discussions intensive on strengthening the economic partnership between Dhaka and Washington, as well as the upcoming national elections in Bangladesh
In a recent diplomatic meeting held at the US State Department in Washington DC, Bangladesh once again promised the United States that the next election in the South Asian nation would be free and fair.
This commitment was reiterated during a significant discussion between Prime Minister’s Adviser on Private Industry and Investment, Salman F Rahman, and the US Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, Azra Jaya.
“We agreed that in a democracy, the only means to changing government is through election. I restated PM Sheikh Hasina’s firm commitment to confirm that the upcoming elections are held in a free fair and peaceful manner,” Salman F Rahman said in the meeting.
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The focal point of the meeting was the upcoming elections in Bangladesh, with both parties affirming their belief that elections represent the cornerstone of a democratic system, allowing the population to choose their government through a fair and transparent process.
Besides addressing election-related matters, the meeting also delved into various bilateral issues of mutual interest. The discussions included plans to further strengthen the existing economic partnership between Bangladesh and the United States.
Prioritizing Rohingya and Middle East Conflicts
The conversation expanded to encompass other pressing global concerns. The recent conflicts in the Middle East were discussed, emphasizing the need for peaceful resolutions to these complex situations. Additionally, the ongoing Rohingya crisis was brought to the forefront. Azra Zeya, the US Under Secretary, commended Bangladesh’s generosity in providing shelter to over 1.2 million Rohingya refugees and assured continued US support for them. The humanitarian effort by Bangladesh to shelter and aid the displaced Rohingya population is widely acknowledged and appreciated on the global stage.
During the discussion of upcoming elections in Bangladesh, both Adviser Salman F Rahman and Under Secretary Azra Jaya emphasized the pivotal role that free and fair elections play in a democratic system.
Azra Jaya made it clear that the United States does not support any particular political party in Bangladesh. Instead, their primary interest lies in the continuation of democracy in the country. The United States values its longstanding relationship with Bangladesh and is dedicated to supporting democratic processes, stability, and progress in the nation.
US diplomat’s prior visit
Earlier, On September 22, 2023, during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Uzra Zeya met with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Their discussions covered various topics, with a particular focus on the upcoming general elections in Bangladesh. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina reiterated her government’s strong commitment to ensuring the safe repatriation of Rohingya refugees to their place of origin, Myanmar.
She emphasized, “Our top priority remains the repatriation of the Rohingya population who have been displaced and sought refuge in Bangladesh.”
The meeting also addressed a range of global and regional issues, including the forthcoming general elections in Bangladesh, highlighting the comprehensive nature of their discussions. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s dedication to addressing the Rohingya crisis underscores her government’s commitment to resolving one of the most pressing humanitarian challenges in the region.
In a previous visit on July 13, 2023, Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights Uzra Jaya met Hon’ble Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. They talked about stronger and expanding ties between Bangladesh and the United States, as well as cooperation on everything from humanitarian aid to gender equality. They discussed initiatives to build a prosperous future supported by solid democratic institutions such as free and fair elections, the important role of civil society and independent media, and strengthening human rights and fundamental freedoms such as freedom of association and labor rights.
