US consistent on the need for free, fair election in BD: White House

The United States has reiterated its call for holding a free and fair election in Bangladesh, reports UNB.
"We've been consistent on the need for Bangladesh to hold free and fair elections," said National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby at a media briefing at the White House on June 5.
Kirby made the remarks when his attention was drawn to the much-discussed letter from six congressmen to US President Joe Biden, seeking measures for a free and fair election in Bangladesh.
"Look, we've been consistent, and I'm aware of the communication," Kirby said.
To demonstrate that commitment, he said, the State Department recently announced a "3C" visa policy that would restrict visas to individuals who "undermine" Bangladesh's elections.
On Monday, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam said there are many "exaggerations, lack of information and inconsistency" in the letter from the six US congressmen to President Biden.
"But constructively, we will reach out to all these members," he told reporters while responding to a question, noting that such activities might increase in the coming days as the election nears.
Meanwhile, the United States says it is looking forward to "deepening" its relationship with Bangladesh in a number of areas - addressing energy, climate issues and economy.
"That being said, we also will continue to push for the freedom of expression of religion and faiths of all people around the world," Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel said during a regular briefing at the US Department of State on June 5.
Responding to a question on the recently held Gazipur City Corporation election, he said, "I'm not going to speak or get into specific election results in another country."