US, UK among 5 countries express concerns over political violence

Diplomatic Correspondent :
Seven countries including the United States and the United Kingdom jointly expressed deep concerns over the recent outbreak of violence during political gatherings of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in the capital on October 28.

In a joint statement issued on Monday, these nations extended their heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and those injured in the tragic incidents during the clashed between BNP leaders and workers and the law enforcers.

The violent clashes have raised alarm bells among the international community and called on all stakeholders to exercise restraint and work together to create an environment for free, fair, participatory and peaceful election.

The joint statement was signed by the US, the UK, Australia, Canada, Japan, Republic of Korea and Norway.

It is noteworthy that Japan and Republic of Korea have joined the initiative to express their concerns as it was not seen earlier.

“We are deeply concerned by the violence during political gatherings in Dhaka on 28 October and extend our condolences for the loss of life and to those injured,” the joint statement said.

“We call on all stakeholders to exercise restraint, eschew violence and work together to create the conditions for free, fair, participatory, and peaceful elections,” it added.

Earlier on Sunday, the European Union, along with its Member States in Dhaka, expressed profound sadness over the loss of life and escalating violence witnessed on the streets of the capital.

The international community is calling upon all parties engaged to actively pursue a peaceful and inclusive trajectory as the country gears up for critical elections.