Momen criticises foreigners talking about Bangladesh’s democracy

Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen on Tuesday came down heavily on "foreigners talking about democracy and elections in Bangladesh", saying there are flaws in democracy everywhere.

"There are good and bad sides of democracy in all countries. It is not a perfect situation. It is a dynamic process. It is an evolving process. Democracy gets mature through continuous efforts," he said during a media briefing at the ministry while his attention was drawn to US Ambassador Peter Haas' repeated comments on the upcoming national election and democracy in Bangladesh.

The foreign minister said, "Foreigners make comments when they are approached by the media here. You should come to us instead of going to them."

Abdul Momen also said Bangladesh struggled and made sacrifices to establish democracy and does not need advice from outside.

"We remain vocal when we see injustice. That is Bangladesh," added Momen.

Bangladesh wants end to Russia-Ukraine war

Replying to a query about the Russia-Ukraine war, Momen said, "Our position is very specific and clear. We do not want any war. We want this war to stop. We want a resolution through consensus."

Mentioning that the war induced people's sufferings due to the sanctions, the minister said Bangladesh's position is always in favour of people's welfare and they have discussions among them, and a decision has been made about voting for the next resolution.

Asked about the UN voting on the war, he said, Bangladesh exercised voting very prudently and judiciously on the previous occasions and if there is any vote, Bangladesh will again exercise it prudently.

"Any resolution that may come, if they can give an indication of stopping the war or creates scope for discussion, then we will be happy," he added.

"We have certain principles. We act as per those principles. We believe in the UN Charter. We have been a great supporter of the UN. The UN is proud of Bangladesh also," the foreign minister said.

He said any decision will be taken in line with Bangladesh's interest and in accordance with the principles and values that Bangladesh follows.

Responding to a query, he said the UK conveyed their position while Bangladesh shared its own position during a telephone conversation between Abdul Momen and his British counterpart on Monday.