“Clearly, this is an important period for Bangladesh as it looks to hold national elections… it’s critically important for Bangladesh’s reputation that the parliamentary elections are judged to be free, fair and credible,” he said.
The UK Minister also urged all parties to restrain from violence or excessive use of force and called on them to recognise the social and economic impact of strikes and other forms of disruption, which is damaging to individuals, business and the country as a whole.
He said how the election process is managed is of course a matter for Bangladesh. “I hope, all sides will resolve their differences through a meaningful dialogue.”
Duncan made the remarks in a statement after holding a meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
He said the relationship between Britain and Bangladesh remains strong, founded on a long-standing and deep bond stretching across and beyond the last four decades.
“Personal connections between our people lie at the very heart of this relationship and therefore I was delighted to have met the Prime Minister again and look forward to meeting the Leader of the Opposition later today,” he said.
The UK minister said Bangladesh’s influence is growing around the world and therefore more people than ever before will be watching closely. “Their attention has been raised further by the recent episodes of violence as well as tragedies such as the Rana Plaza building collapse.”
He also said Britain is committed to Bangladesh’s development and its ambition of achieving middle income status within the next decade. “Its economic prosperity and social development is important to us, as it also is to the half a million people of Bangladeshi origin living in the UK.”
Earlier, Duncan met Finance Minister AMA Muhith and Expatriates and Overseas Employment Minister Engr Khandaker Hosharraf Hossain.