UK State Minister Calls on Khaleda

Politics through parliament instead of streets stressed

14 July 2010, 18:00 PM

Unb, Dhaka

British Minister of State for International Development Alan Duncan after meeting with BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia yesterday afternoon said his country preferred politics in Bangladesh be conducted through parliament instead of the streets. He told newsmen that they want to see parliament work effectively with a good set of rules where any member can express his political views freely. The British minister said he discussed with Khaleda how parliament works in Bangladesh. “I am very aware of and concerned about the condition of democracy in Bangladesh,” he said, adding they did not want to make any judgment about it as it is an internal matter. He said those who were elected should perform in parliament to make it effective as well as be allowed to speak freely to question the government on different issues. Duncan said he had constructive talks with the opposition leader. Relation between Bangladesh and UK is very strong and they remain committed for international development progarmme in Bangladesh. Khaleda congratulated the new UK government led by David Cameron and wished his success. Duncan's visit to Bangladesh is the first of a minister of the new UK government led by David Cameron. He called on Khaleda Zia at her Gulshan office at 5:15pm. UK acting High Commissioner in Dhaka Duncan Norman and BNP chairperson's advisers Reaz Rahman and Sabihuddin Ahmed were present at the meeting.