US Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Uzra Zeya today said she heard a "strong commitment" from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and other ministers in support of free, fair and peaceful elections in Bangladesh.
"A prosperous future depends on strong democratic institutions, and the broad participation of Bangladeshis in elections and the governance of their country," she told reporters after her meeting with Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen today at the State Guest House Padma.
The United States looks forward to continued collaboration supportive to an inclusive and democratic Bangladesh, in which all Bangladeshis can thrive, said the Under Secretary.
Responding to a question, she said the timetable of the election is something for Bangladesh to decide.
The Under Secretary said the United States, as part of their global human rights policy, supports "free, fair and peaceful" elections and they want to do their part as a longtime partner of Bangladesh to help make this possible.
"We had constructive, productive and engaging discussions. And I would say yesterday, we witnessed large political rallies that were, thankfully, free of serious violence," she said.
They discussed the need for free and fair elections, the ability of journalists to report without fear of retaliation or intimidation, collaboration to combat trafficking in persons, and the vital role that civil society plays in democracies advancing respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedoms of expression and association.
