Staff Reporter :
In a resolute statement amidst the backdrop of a senior US diplomat’s visit to the city, Bangladesh’s Road Transport and Bridges Minister, Obaidul Quader, boldly declared the government’s indifference towards potential sanctions or visa policies imposed by foreign nations.
Speaking at a press conference held at the secretariat on Tuesday, Quader, who also holds the position of Awami League general secretary, downplayed the significance of the US Assistant State Secretary’s visit, questioning the attention it garnered.
“I have nothing to say about the arrival of the US Assistant State Secretary. Why is there so much fuss about the visit of a country’s assistant state secretary?” he asked. In a veiled jab at the opposition party, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Quader suggested their lack of concern regarding various issues. “I do not know if the BNP cares or not (about the US diplomat’s visit). They externally show no care about many issues, but do actually,” he added.
Amidst the ongoing movement against the use of Indian products, Quader raised doubts about the feasibility of boycotting Indian goods, particularly spices, while affirming the continuation of imports for essential commodities like clothes and daily necessities. He accused the BNP of politicizing the issue to divert attention from substantive matters.
In a mocking tone aimed at the BNP’s repeated deadlines for movements, Quader highlighted the dwindling influence of the opposition, citing recent unsuccessful rallies in Dhaka. “Their activists are now frustrated and are not getting involved in any movement,” he observed.
Addressing concerns over the proposed value-added tax (VAT) on the metro rail, Quader underscored the government’s commitment to resolving the issue, noting that no other country imposes a 15 percent VAT on metro rail services.
He reassured the public that discussions with the Prime Minister had been held, with assurances of finding a satisfactory resolution.
About plying of unfit vehicles in the capital city, Quader said unfit vehicles will be dumped. But considering the issue of people’s hassle, those vehicles have minimum fitness to ply will not be dumped now, he mentioned.
“We are considering adding electric buses to public transport,” he said.