Bangladesh
Abdul Momen US won't support those who will not participate in elections: Momen
Dhaka, Oct 5: Foreign Minister Dr. AK Abdul Momen said that the political parties who do not want to participate in the upcoming general elections of Bangladesh will not get any support from the United States.
In the first conversation with the journalists after a few hours of his return home from the United States and the United Kingdom with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday, he said, "America will not be with the parties that will not participate in the elections."
Momen said, "Washington believes that elections are the only way to change any government and we also want democratic government."
Momen said, "They (US) told us that they are not supporting any particular (political) party (in Bangladesh too)."
The foreign minister said the United States has announced a new visa policy to assist the Bangladesh government in conducting a free, fair and violence-free election.
He also said, "They (US) believe in democracy, they want a democratic government, (and) we want a democratic government too."
Responding to a question regarding the new US visa policy for Bangladesh, the minister said that every country has its own visa policy and Bangladesh also has its own visa policy. (eg) We don't give visas to everyone.
He said, "If necessary, Bangladesh can also impose sanctions on other countries. Momen said, 'We can also ban those who will ban us, right? Of course we can."
Momen reiterated the government's view that there is no reason to worry about the US visa policy. It did not create any pressure on Dhaka. In response to a question, the foreign minister said, if necessary, Bangladesh can impose sanctions on other countries.
When asked whether Dhaka is preparing to impose any such visa restrictions for other countries, the foreign minister said, "If necessary, we will (impose restrictions), why is there such a hurry!" You will know it at the right time.
In response to another question, the foreign minister said that during the visit to the United States and the United Kingdom, the delegation of Bangladesh led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina exchanged views with many foreigners on various issues.
In response to a question, Momen said that if people vote, it will be considered as a free and fair election. He further said, "Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has courage and she has confidence (in free and fair elections).
