Staff Reporter :
The Commonwealth has pledged to support the reform initiatives undertaken by the interim government for its goal to establish an inclusive, prosperous society free from discrimination.
Assistant Secretary-General (ASG) of the Commonwealth Prof Luis Gabriel Franceschi made this pledge during a meeting with Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain at the foreign ministry on Sunday, said a press release.
The ASG has reiterated the Commonwealth’s commitment to collaborating with Bangladesh’s interim government to build an inclusive, prosperous and discrimination free society following the fall of Sheikh Hasina government on August 5.
Leading a high-level delegation, Prof Franceschi who is on a four-day visit to Bangladesh would hold a series of meetings and interactions with various dignitaries of the interim government led by Prof Muhammad Yunus.
He lauded the interim government’s efforts towards democratic reform and assured full support from the Commonwealth for ongoing reform initiatives, including those focused on electoral process improvements.
Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain sought stronger international support to address the Rohingya crisis.
“Bangladesh alone cannot address this crisis. The only viable solution lies in the safe and sustainable return of the Rohingyas to their homeland in Myanmar, with dignity and rights,” he stressed.
The ASG expressed the Commonwealth’s continued support and collaboration in resolving the crisis and underscored the importance of sustained humanitarian assistance for the displaced Rohingya population who were persecuted by the Myanmar Army in 2017.
During the discussion, the Foreign Adviser also highlighted the historic student-led mass movement that toppled Sheikh Hasina-led autocratic rule, paving the way for democratic restoration in Bangladesh.
The adviser also outlined the interim government’s reform initiatives to ensure a smooth and inclusive democratic transition, aimed at preventing a return to past challenges. Recalling the contribution of the students, he emphasized that the interim government reflects the aspirations of Bangladesh’s youth and urged the Commonwealth’s continued support for reform efforts.
Prof Franceschi also met Adviser for Social Welfare Sharmeen Murshid, who highlighted the strength of the interim government, noting its broad public support.
She briefed the delegation on the plan for the injured mass and sought support from the Commonwealth for counseling, re-teaching and therapies.