Britain to continue assistance: Anisul

The British government has recognised the new government of Bangladesh and will continue its assistance during the new regime, Law Minister Anisul Haque said Tuesday, reports UNB.

"The British government has realised that the just-held election was needed to be held. The UK-aided activities in Bangladesh will continue in the future," he quoted British High Commissioner in Dhaka Robert W Gibson as saying.

The minister was talking to reporters after a meeting with the British envoy at his office.

Anisul also said Gibson urged the two major political parties of Bangladesh to sit in talks as he thinks there is no alternative to dialogue for the continuation of democracy.

"I told him that we also want dialogue but those who join the dialogue must make it clear that they don't support any terrorist group and terror activities," said the Law Minister.

Turning to the High Court (HC) order asking BNP senior vice-chairman Tarique Rahman to surrender before a trial court, Anisul said he will secure bail if he surrenders before the court. "Now, it depends on him whether he will surrender or not."

On Sunday, the HC asked Tarique Rahman, also the eldest son of BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, to surrender before the trial court in connection with the money-laundering charges he was acquitted of.

On November 17 last, a Special Judge Court of Dhaka acquitted the BNP senior vice-chairman and sentenced his business partner Giasuddin Al Mamun to seven years' imprisonment in the case.