The United States would like to see constructive dialogues held between major political parties in standoff over polls in Bangladesh, but won't directly play the go-between.
Uzra Zeya, US undersecretary for civilian security, democracy and human rights, who led a mission for talks in Bangladesh on a wide range of issues of common concern, conveyed her country's position on the election matters at a joint press conference Thursday in Dhaka.
"You know, we're all for dialogue that we don't have any direct involvement in what you described," she said to a query about her country's position regarding a dialogue between the political divides over the upcoming general election here.
The briefing session was held after her meeting with foreign secretary Masud Bin Momen that came in a string of engagements, incidentally, amid a faceoff between two main political alignments headed by the ruling Awami League and the opposition BNP over the conduct of election.
"I think we've had constructive, productive and engaging discussions. And, I'd say, yesterday we witnessed large political rallies that were thankfully free of serious violence," said Ms Zeya.
"I think this is a good harbinger that we would like to see replicated," she continued on what ambiance they like to see in the run-up to elections.
"In meetings with government partners today, we also discussed the need for free and fair elections, ability of journalists to report news without fear of retaliation or intimidation, collaboration to combat trafficking in persons and a vital role that civil society plays in advancing respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedoms of expression and association," the US undersecretary told the press.
"A prosperous future depends on stronger democratic institutions and the broad participation of Bangladeshis in elections and the governance of their country," she noted.
The United States-now governed by the Democrats headed by President Biden-- looks forward to continued collaboration for a supportive, inclusive and democratic Bangladesh in which all the people can thrive, she said categorically.
Responding to another query, Ms Zeya said she heard 'a strong commitment' from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina regarding fair polls.
"And all the government ministers with whom I've had the pleasure to meet today [Thursday] expressed support for free, fair and peaceful elections."
The visiting dignitary said the United States, as part of its global human- rights policy, supports free, fair and peaceful elections.
"And we want to do our part as a long-time partner of Bangladesh to help make this possible."
Replying to another question on a red-hot geopolitical-strategic issue, Ms Zeya said she came here to underscore the American desire to deepen the US-Bangla partnership in support of "our vision" of a free and open Indo-Pacific anchored in resilience that is more resilient, more connected, more secure and more prosperous.
"I was pleased to meet today with honourable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, law minister, home minister, and foreign secretary Masud Bin Momen to discuss excellent partnerships our two nations have built over the last five decades."
And the US "looks forward to deepening our engagement with Bangladesh over the next 50 years and beyond our cooperation on climate change, development, the economy, humanitarian assistance and security shows the range of strong partnership and future potential between the two countries."
On the Rohingya issue, America seeks continued support by other donors and potential donors, and it supports efforts to create the conditions for an eventually safe, dignified, informed and voluntary return of Rohingya.
Foreign secretary Momen said they discussed issues related to humanitarian support, labour issues and free elections.
"I also told her how much Bangladesh has achieved over the past decade in labour reforms, including improving safety and rights," he said, adding that more reforms are on the cards.
"We also discussed and exchanged views on matters related to civil rights and the next general election."
"We also talked about collaborations in the civilian security, including trafficking in persons."
Bangladesh repeated its request for withdrawal of the US sanctions against RAB, Mr Momen said in conclusion.
mirmostafiz@yahoo.com
