US secretary of state John Kerry has called on the Bangladesh government to end the current crisis peacefully, ensuring political expression of all parties.
In a meeting with foreign minister AH Mahmood Ali in Washington on Thursday, Kerry also offered renewed US support to help achieve a political solution that returns Bangladesh to its democratic foundations.
“He (the secretary of state) stated there can be no tolerance for tactics that target innocent citizens or inhibit political expression in a democratic Bangladesh,” said a release by the US state department press office.
John Kerry also emphasised the need for a free and fair media that plays a constructive role in ensuring human rights.
He condemned the targeting of civilians by political parties and stressed the need for opposition parties to cease such attacks immediately.
The secretary of state noted Bangladesh’s increasing strategic importance in the region and underscored the need to protect Bangladesh’s fundamental freedoms.
A news release issued by Bangladesh mission in Washington said the two leaders agreed that violence has no space in a democracy, and condemned the mindless violence and extremism in the name of ideology or political expression.
The secretary of state conveyed his appreciation for the close relations the United States shares with Bangladesh. They discussed Bangladesh’s economic growth and gains in development, as well as our shared efforts to address climate change and improve labor conditions.
Source: Prothom Alo
