The US administration Monday disapproved of any military intervention in Bangladesh as a horrible idea despite debilitating political disputes on election issues, but urged both BNP and Awami League to act responsibly putting interest of the nation above all else, reports UNB. "No, I do not. Military intervention would be a horrible idea, and I believe that your military knows that," said Steve Engelken, Director of the office of Bangladesh and Pakistan Affairs, during an INTERNET chat with some Bangladesh journalists on Monday evening.
| "Are you nuts? Solve your own damned problems!" |
"Democracy takes constant effort by all, if it is to be maintained. We call on both major parties to act responsibly and put the interests of the nation ahead of everything," he said, adding: "Bangladesh''s international friends, including the United States, support broad participation in next general election which should be free and fair."
| "Sort of like our country, which has Republicans and .. um .. well, some crazy folk." |
He observed that the people of Bangladesh struggled hard for democracy and made sacrifices for it that few Americans today can imagine. However, democracies require constant effort by the people if they are to be maintained. "Bangladesh''s international friends, including the United States, support your efforts to maintain democratic governance. It is, therefore, extremely important that the next elections enjoy broad participation and be free and fair," Engelken said.
| But we're not going to do the heavy lifting for you. |
On the question of formal cooperation between the USA and Bangladesh in dealing with rising militancy and terrorism like that of India and Pakistan, he said the Bush administration would consider it seriously if Bangladesh government so wanted. "We maintain a regular dialogue with the Government of Bangladesh on terrorism issues. If the Bangladeshi Government wanted to make these discussions more formal, we would consider that request seriously," he said.
About the government''s anti-JMB operation, the US State Department official said, "Many known terrorist leaders still remain at large. We would hope the Government will not rest until it has pursued all leads in this investigation and has arrested the ringleaders behind the recent bombings."
| "We note with interest something called the Rapid Action Battalions, and would use the phrase, 'faster please'." |
However, he noted, Bangladeshi government has made significant progress in its investigation of the recent terrorist attacks. It is notable that some weeks have passed since the last bombing. It is too early, however, to say that Bangladesh has turned the corner.
About President Bush''s possible visit to Dhaka, Engelken could not say with certainty about the US President''s trip. "Our New Year''s resolution is to visit Bangladesh more often. I think you will see more American visitors this year. Whether or not that will include President Bush I cannot say for sure." |