Bangladesh News

The United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union yesterday welcomed the initiation of dialogue between BNP and Awami League (AL), saying that it would pave the way for free and fair elections with participation of all political parties.
In his reaction, British High Commissioner in Bangladesh Anwar Choudhury welcomed the dialogue and expressed the hope that both the parties would be able to find a way of resolving the differences over the coming elections.

“We are very pleased that the dialogue is taking place; the national parliament house is the right place for such talks-it is the symbol of democracy and unity,” he noted in his instant reaction to the press.

The Bangladesh-born British diplomat said, “We are also very pleased to hear that the dialogue will continue for a few days until a consensus is reached. Our good wishes go to both the parties in their search for finding a way forward.”

The United States also welcomed the dialogue between the ruling and the opposition parties and said the US would continue to support a negotiated resolution of any obstacles to broad participation in the forthcoming election in Bangladesh.

“Dialogue will reduce tension and strengthen prospects for a successful, peaceful and fair election,” a spokesman for the US embassy here said.

He said, “As we have stated on many occasions, the US does not favor any party or candidate in the election but supports a peaceful, fair and free electoral process.”

German Ambassador Frank Meyke, who chairs the presidency of European Union for Finland, said the EU hoped that the dialogue would lead to a successful conclusion for free and fair elections.

“We hope both the parties will successfully prepare the way for free and fair elections,” Meyke told the news agency.