Canada has expressed its 'disappointment' over the January 07 election in Bangladesh, while Australia urged Bangladesh to 'prioritise' strengthening of the country's democratic institutions.
Welcoming the polls, Japan expressed concern over reported irregularities and violence that resulted in casualties.
Canada has said "it remains committed to support the people of Bangladesh" in their aspirations for a more stable, prosperous, and democratic future, according to a UNB report.
"Fair elections with a viable opposition, independent democratic institutions and freedom of the press are critical to ensuring a strong and healthy democracy," the Canadian government said in a statement.
Canada expressed its 'disappointment' that this electoral process has "fallen short of" the principles of democracy and freedom upon which Bangladesh was founded, and called on the relevant authorities to work transparently with all parties to move forward towards democracy, respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms in line with the interests of the people of Bangladesh.
Global Affairs Canada on January 9 issued the statement regarding the parliamentary election held in Bangladesh on January 7, 2024.
"Canada commends and supports the democratic aspirations of Bangladeshi citizens and condemns the acts of intimidation and violence that took place ahead and during the elections," said the Canadian government.
The country extended sympathy to all of those who have been affected by the violence that has occurred.
Canada was one of the first countries to recognise the independence of Bangladesh in 1971.
Meanwhile, the Australian government has urged the Bangladesh government to "prioritise" the strengthening of its democratic institutions, which "underpin" the protection of human rights, rule of law and the promotion of development.
"As a close partner, Australia remains committed to working with Bangladesh to achieve our shared vision for an open, stable, prosperous and inclusive region," said the Australian government in a statement on Bangladesh elections.
Australia noted the results of the parliamentary election in Bangladesh on January 7.
"While we welcome the fact that millions of Bangladeshi voters exercised their right to vote on election day, it is regrettable that the elections took place in an environment where not all stakeholders could participate meaningfully and substantially," it observed.
As a longstanding friend of Bangladesh, Australia said they are concerned about the violence and the arrests of political opposition members that took place in the lead-up to the elections.
Australia has consistently highlighted to Bangladesh the importance of free and fair elections, said the statement issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
FE Report adds: In response to the 12th national election, Japan has welcomed the elections, stating that they were generally conducted peacefully, despite some reported irregularities.
The Japanese Embassy Press Secretary, KOBAYASHI Maki, stated that the election process was observed to be conducted in accordance with procedures.
However, he expressed regret over incidents of violence that occurred leading up to the general election, resulting in casualties.
The statement was issued by a Japanese election observer mission, led by former Ambassador to Bangladesh WATANABE Masato, which conducted monitoring activities on-site.
The Press Secretary expressed hope that Bangladesh, as a strategic partner, will continue to make progress in its democratic development. Japan intends to support Bangladesh for its development and prosperity, as well as further enhance the bilateral relationship between the two countries.
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