DHAKA: Foreign Minister Dr Dipu Moni reiterated the present Government’s commitment to strengthen democracy in Bangladesh by holding the next general election under elected Government.
In a speech delivered at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Washington DC, the Foreign Minister elaborated on Bangladesh`s intriguing journey towards democracy and its contribution in the overall security of Bangladesh as well as the region.
Moderated by Jessica Mathews, president of Carnegie, the full-house programme was attended by representatives of US Government, think tank, media, civil society and diplomats.
Bangladesh Ambassador to USA Akramul Qader and officers of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Bangladesh Embassy were present at the Programme.
In her speech, Foreign Minister focused on the socio-economic and political achievements of Bangladesh and its recurring effects on the peace and security of the entire region.
Referring to the crucial phases of Bangladesh`s history, she narrated, how after the independence in 1971 Bangladesh`s secular, republic and democratic character was assassinated by successive military and quasi-military governments and how the constitution was subjugated to the whims of usurpers.
She attributed Bangladesh`s progress as well as regional security to the present Government`s firm adherence to rule of law which it is trying to establish by ensuring justice in the society.
Citing the instances of various efforts of the leadership of Sheikh Hasina to ensure human security through economic emancipation, she asserted that, Bangladesh has secured peace through investment in human development.
Dr Dipu Moni illustrated present Government`s foreign policy directives that put strong emphasis on peaceful settlement of all disputes within and beyond borders.
She also explained present governments initiatives to participate in and strengthen regional connectivity so as to extract economic benefits out of Bangladesh`s strategic position.
On next Parliamentary election, Foreign Minister stated that the present government is committed to the constitutional obligations that it has fought so long to re-instate and preserve and accordingly there is no room for unconstitutional processes and claimants to undermine Bangladesh`s democratic national order.
Therefore, the next general election will be held by an independent Election Commission under the elected government, stated Dr Dipu Moni.
She stressed that, Bangladesh has come a long way on its path to democracy and allowing any kind of unconstitutional means would only jeopardize the achievements by opening windows for unelected aspirants to take over the state power.
After the speech, Foreign Minister responded to various queries from the audience which included governments’ steps to ensure worker safety, post GSP suspension issues, the arrest of Adilur Rahman and Bangladesh`s unresolved issues with India.
BDST: 1130 HRS, SEP 06, 2013
MMK/GCP
