UK welcomes BD’s new democratic chapter
The British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Sarah Cooke, has reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s support for media freedom and democratic values, while welcoming Bangladesh’s new political chapter following the recent national election.
Speaking at an Iftar reception with journalists at the British High Commission residence in Dhaka on Wednesday, Cooke said the UK warmly welcomed the formation of the new government after what she described as a free, fair, credible and peaceful election held a month ago.
“Clearly, much has changed since we last gathered together last year. The new government has taken office following a free, fair, credible and peaceful election just one month ago,” she said.
“The UK warmly welcomes this new chapter, which represents an important step in the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. A peaceful, democratic and prosperous Bangladesh is in all our interests.”
Cooke said the UK looked forward to working closely with the government and the people of Bangladesh on shared priorities as the country moves forward.
“One of those priorities is a free media and respect for human rights, which are essential foundations of any democracy,” she added.
The High Commissioner noted that the UK has a longstanding commitment to promoting freedom of expression and media freedom both in Bangladesh and globally.
She said the UK has taken on a new leadership role in the Global Media Freedom Coalition this month, serving as co-chair alongside Finland.
Founded by the UK and Canada in 2019, the coalition now includes 51 member states and works to advocate for journalists’ safety and independent media worldwide.
“Across the world, media freedom is under pressure. The coalition gives countries like ours a strong collective voice in support of free and independent media,” Cooke said.
She added that the coalition aims to support public interest journalism, help countries navigate the opportunities and risks posed by new technologies, and address challenges faced by women journalists.
The British High Commission will also highlight the importance of free and independent media through social media advocacy, she said, encouraging journalists to use their voices to support press freedom.
Cooke noted that the UK continues to support media professionals in Bangladesh through training and fellowships. Under the South Asia Journalism Programme, journalists receive fully funded courses at the University of Westminster to study how media can help hold democratic processes to account.
She said three more Bangladeshi journalists will travel to the UK this year to join the fellowship programme.
Touching on cultural and sporting ties, Cooke said she was pleased that the Bangladesh women’s national cricket team will travel to England this summer to compete in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
“As all of you know, cricket is a major passion of mine,” she said, adding that she would have to remain “strictly neutral” when Bangladesh plays either England or Scotland.
Looking ahead, Cooke said the UK hopes to deepen cooperation with Bangladesh in areas including economic growth, trade and investment, migration, security, climate action and support for Rohingya refugees.
“The UK is a reliable and predictable long-term partner for Bangladesh for mutual prosperity,” she said, wishing all those present a peaceful and blessed Ramadan.
