The Economist's "Embraceable You "
I have read with interest the recent article published by the Economist (July 30th August 5th) and find our Government's reaction somewhat exaggerated. The analysis had more to do with India's approach to fast tracking its good neighbourly relations than having a dig at Bangladesh's political situation. For those of us familiar with the Economist, the observations were routine and in line with previous write-ups. To the Government's credit it refrained from making the elementary mistake of deleting sections of the article or, unthinkably, banning the issue. For the depth of its analysis, fluidity of presentation and uncanny knack to predict the future the Economist has come to be a must read for so many government functionaries and policymakers. It spotted Obama way before he became a threat to Hilary and in recent times has heaped praise on the Arab Spring arguing that its inherent democratic strength far outweighs the dangers of Islamic fundamentalism. Following on from its Leader, it criticized India for its over-reliance on the Awami League and shunning meetings with the BNP. For its part the Awami League must therefore demonstrate its maturity in engaging in bi-partisan politics. The Awami League would do well to concentrate on core issues: improving the lot of the poor, drastic steps to improve infrastructure (some achievements like reduction in infant mortality rates and rise in agricultural output are praiseworthy but more needs to be done), seen to be tolerant and ensuring justice on a level playing field. It will then be a matter of time before the Economist says less about this “beggar infested city of Dhaka” and more about the Emerging Tiger of South Asia. Oh, wouldn't that be wonderful!
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