US Under Secretary Uzra Zeya will meet with senior government officials in Bangladesh, during her tour from July 11-14, to discuss shared humanitarian concerns, including the Rohingya refugee crisis, labour issues, human rights, free and fair elections, and combating trafficking in persons.

She will also engage with civil society leaders on freedom of expression and association, human labour rights – inclusive of vulnerable groups – and governance and democracy.

Zeya is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka today after a four-day tour to India.

US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller made the comment in response to a question regarding Uzra Zeya's visit, on Monday (July 10). 

"I don't know why anyone would object to us calling for free and fair elections. I will note that the prime minister of Bangladesh has repeatedly stated her own commitment to free and fair elections. It's a desire that we share as a friend and partner of Bangladesh for over 50 years," said Miller. 

Miller made the comment in response to a question on recent criticism from China, Russia and Iran that said the statements and letters from the US and European Union politicians were interference in Bangladesh's internal affairs.

He said Washington does not support one political party over the other, but a genuine democratic process.

BDST: 1310 HRS, JULY 11, 2023
MN/SMS