They discussed trial process of war criminals, says PM’s adviser
US Secretary of State John Kerry on Wednesday phoned Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and welcomed the dialogue between the ruling Awami League and opposition BNP under the supervision of UN Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs Oscar Fernández Taranco.
He also hoped that the existing political stalemate would be removed with this dialogue and there would be a fair election in Bangladesh.
PM’s Media Adviser Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury briefed reporters at the main gate of PM’s official residence Ganobhaban about the conversation between Sheikh Hasina and John Kerry.
Iqbal Sobhan said they also discussed the trial process of the war criminals and the execution of the verdict of the higher court.
Kerry also enquired about the trial procedures at the International Crimes Tribunal.
The PM’s adviser said Sheikh Hasina, in her reply, said the judiciary in Bangladesh enjoys full freedom and all the trial procedures would be followed.
He also said Kerry expressed his concern over the ongoing violence in Bangladesh.
In reply, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said the next election of the country would be held as per the Constitution in a free and fair manner.
Kerry put emphasis on holding the election in a peaceful atmosphere and strengthening democratic institutions.
When his attention was drawn to the meeting between the Prime Minister and Oscar Fernández Taranco, Iqbal Sobhan said the scheduled meeting did not take place as both were very busy with their respective works.
But, he said, the ongoing dialogue between the ruling and opposition parties will go on.
Secretary Kerry expressed his deep concern over the ongoing violence during the opposition’s blockade and shutdown programmes.
Secretary Kerry welcomed the dialogue between Awami League and BNP and underscored the importance of a political settlement for peaceful elections and the strengthening of democratic institutions.
The premier and the secretary agreed on the importance of creating congenial political environment for dialogue by ending blockade and violence and freeing political leaders in protective custody.
Sheikh Hasina and Secretary Kerry also spoke on the trial of the war criminals at the ICT as well as the Supreme Court, following appropriate judicial process and on the execution of the judgment, Iqbal Sobhan said.
Kerry welcomed the stringent stance of the government against extremism and terrorism. He expressed his pleasure unreservedly while referring to Bangladesh’s progress in the economic and social sectors led by the present government, the PM’s adviser said.
For the socioeconomic development of Bangladesh, the Obama government will continue to be the partner of Sheikh Hasina government, he tells the PM.
Source: UNB Connect