World
European Union EU expresses regret over major political parties' absence in Bangladesh elections
Brussels, Jan 11: The European Union (EU) has expressed regret over the non-participation of all major political parties in the recently held 12th National Parliament Elections of Bangladesh.
However, considering the long-standing relationship, the EU has given a message to work with the Bangladesh government in political, human rights, trade and development fields. The EU stated its position in a statement on the Bangladesh elections on Tuesday local time in Brussels.
According to the statement of the EU, the EU observed the results of the parliamentary elections held on January 7 in Bangladesh. The EU regrets that not all major parties participated in these elections. The EU reiterates that the EU's partnership with Bangladesh is founded on the values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
The EU says it welcomes the authorities to publish the forthcoming report and recommendations of the EU Electoral Expert Mission. It also calls upon the authorities concerned to ensure full investigation of electoral irregularities in terms of transparency and accountability.
In a statement, the European Union condemned the violence during the elections. Besides, the alliance called upon all parties to avoid violence during the post-election period. The statement said, it is very important to respect and uphold the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, the rule of law, and the right to peaceful assembly during the post-election period. The arrest of members of the opposition party in this regard is worrying.
The EU will continue to work with the government of Bangladesh on political, human rights, trade and development and the country's potential GSP Plus benefits, the statement said.
