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US Keen to work with Bangladesh to strengthen democratic institutions: diplomat from
US willing to work with Bangladesh to strengthen democratic institutions: Diplomat
US Ambassador to Bangladesh says Washington eager to cooperate with Dhaka to bolster democracy
US keenness comes amidst concerns over democratic backsliding in Bangladesh
The United States is keen to work with Bangladesh to strengthen democratic institutions in the country, according to US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas. Haas made the remarks during a meeting with Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen in Dhaka on Thursday.
"The United States is committed to working with Bangladesh to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law," Haas said. "We believe that a strong democracy is essential for Bangladesh's continued economic development and stability."
Momen welcomed the US commitment, saying that Bangladesh is committed to strengthening its democracy. "We appreciate the US support for our efforts to build a more democratic and prosperous Bangladesh," Momen said.
The US willingness to work with Bangladesh on democracy comes amidst concerns over democratic backsliding in the country. In recent years, Bangladesh has seen a crackdown on dissent, with the government arresting and prosecuting journalists, activists, and opposition politicians. The government has also been accused of manipulating elections and undermining the independence of the judiciary.
The US has previously expressed concern over the democratic backsliding in Bangladesh. In a statement last year, the US State Department said that "the United States is concerned about the recent erosion of democratic norms in Bangladesh." The statement called on the Bangladesh government to "respect the rights of its citizens and uphold its international human rights obligations."
The US willingness to work with Bangladesh on democracy is a positive step. It is important for the US to continue to engage with Bangladesh on this issue and to support the country's efforts to strengthen its democratic institutions.
