The United States has expressed its appreciation for the steps taken by Bangladesh's interim government to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.

In a statement to Voice of America Bangla on Tuesday (Dec 3), a spokesperson for the US Department of State addressed concerns about the protection of minority communities in Bangladesh. 

The statement emphasized: “We condemn any acts of violence or intolerance towards members of minority communities and welcome the interim government's continued efforts to ensure the security of all citizens in Bangladesh.”

Regarding allegations of minority persecution, the spokesperson reaffirmed the US commitment to fundamental rights, saying, “The United States supports freedom of religion or belief, freedom of expression, and the rights to peaceful assembly and association as fundamental freedoms. We consistently communicate our support for these rights to the interim government of Bangladesh and our other partners.”

The US State Department also addressed concerns surrounding the designation of ISKCON as a "terrorist organisation" in Bangladesh and the ongoing legal troubles of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari. 

The spokesperson said: "These issues should be resolved by the government of Bangladesh in line with the rights guaranteed by its constitution and laws. We urge Bangladesh, as we do all countries, to uphold freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and religion or belief."

Amid rising tensions between Bangladesh and India over issues such as the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das and alleged persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh, the State Department highlighted its strong ties with both nations. 

“We deeply value our relationships with both Bangladesh and India. We leave the matter of their diplomatic relations to the respective governments,” the spokesperson added while reiterating the US commitment to promoting regional security.

BDST: 1403 HRS, DEC 04, 2024
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