By Mizan Rahman
Dhaka
Voicing disappointment both at irregularities in the city polls and Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s boycott midway through, a top US official in Dhaka yesterday called for a transparent investigation into the irregularities making sure that the next election is improved.
“I think where everyone needs to focus on (that) to have a transparent investigation into those irregularities making sure that the next election is highly improved. This is very important for democracy,” said US Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs Wendy Sherman.
She said they remain focused on a long-term solution that accommodates all parties and allows the Bangladeshi people to peacefully express their views.
Sherman was talking to journalists at a crowded press conference at State Guesthouse Meghna on the outcome of the two-day fourth Partnership Dialogue between Bangladesh and the USA.
Foreign Secretary M Shahidul Haque, Secretary, Maritime Affairs Unit, Rear Admiral (retd) M Khurshed Alam, US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Nisha Desai Biswal, US Ambassador Marcia Stephens Bloom Bernicat, Foreign Ministry Director General (Americas) Mohamed Mahfuzur Rahman and DG (External Publicity) S Bodiruzzaman were present.
The foreign secretary said they discussed issues of three broad areas -- development and governance; trade and investment and security co-operation in the discussion.
“We’re extremely happy as the meeting was held in a very productive manner. Many issues came up for discussion,” he said.
On investment issues, Sherman said companies such as Chevron and Coca-Cola are among the many US businesses looking to invest in Bangladesh.
“We’re very supportive of increased investment, and we’re confident that level-playing field in Bangladesh will attract even more US businesses,” she said.
Sherman said the US is eager to work with Bangladesh to help raise incomes and livelihoods in Bangladesh by connecting the growing economies of South and Southeast Asia.
“We think Bangladesh has near-unlimited potential to transform both itself and its region, and we are excited to be your strong partner in reaching that potential,” she said.
Going back to issues discussed, Sherman said they have broadened the discussion to include an emphasis on the environment, health and infectious diseases, and the blue (maritime) economy.
She also said two moderate, pluralistic nations can work together to advance common goals in development, trade, security and regional integration.
Terming relations with Bangladesh strong, deep and vibrant, Sherman said, “We’re working very closely in strengthening our bilateral relationship and support Bangladesh to achieve its economic and social development goals.” Appreciating Bangladesh’s contribution to the peacekeeping efforts, the US official said Bangladesh’s contribution is second to none.
