BNP wants Modi to advocate democratic government

BNP hoped on Saturday that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi would advocate for establishing a democratic government in Bangladesh, reports UNB.

"Indian Prime Minister was given warm state reception on his arrival in the country. We also welcome the honourable Prime Minister of our neighbouring country," said BNP standing committee member Hannan Shah.

He further said "India is a democratic country. Modi is also one of the pioneers of democracy. We hope he will advocate as much as possible with the diplomatic norms for establishing a democratic government in Bangladesh."

The BNP leader made the remarks while addressing a discussion at the National Press Club arranged by Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal marking party founder Ziaur Rahman's 34th death anniversary.

Making his party's stance clear on strengthening ties with India, Hannan Shah said: "Bangladesh is an independent country while India is a big democratic and independent country. Democracy is well established there. We hope the relations between to two countries would be cemented further."

He alleged that the previous Indian Congress-led government had maintained relation with a single party and supported Awami League in the 'controversial and voter-less' election held on January 5, 2014 boycotted by BNP.

Mentioning that Indian Constitution allows its government to work for strengthening the democratic system and movement of other countries, the BNP leader regretted that the Congress-led government had taken an opposite stance ignoring the hopes and aspirations of the people of Bangladesh.