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Michael Miller, Head of the EU Delegation and Ambassador to Bangladesh, expressed optimism that an elected government will assume responsibility for running the country next year and affirmed that the European Union looks forward to working with that government.
He also said that completing reform measures is crucial for Bangladesh’s transition to democracy.
The EU envoy made these remarks yesterday at a discussion on Bangladesh-EU relations, organised by the Association of Former Ambassadors at the Foreign Service Academy.
The event was attended by the Association’s President Ambassador Abdullah Al Hasan, Vice President Ambassador Shahed Akhtar, General Secretary A.F.M. Gausul Azam Sarkar, Ambassador M. Shafiullah, Ambassador M. Humayun Kabir, Foreign Ministry Secretary Dr. Md. Nazrul Islam, as well as other diplomats and envoys.
In his speech, Ambassador Miller said: “I have travelled across various districts of Bangladesh. I have seen the hopes and aspirations of the young generation. Bangladesh now has an opportunity to fulfil those aspirations. To realise this, political parties, civil society, development partners and all stakeholders must work together.”
Referring to the upcoming election, Miller said: “Bangladesh is progressing on a path of political transition. The European Union will continue to extend all forms of support to the interim government to ensure a free and fair election in February. For democratic transition, it is urgent to complete the reform measures undertaken by the interim government. Political consensus is essential in this regard.”
On foreign investment in Bangladesh, Miller said European investors are keen to invest in the country. “Any investor seeks protection of investment and a stable environment,” he noted.
Speaking on Bangladesh-EU ties, the envoy said: “Human rights, development, democracy and freedom of expression are the fundamental basis of our bilateral relations. In the coming days, we will work even more vigorously on these issues.” He stressed that the EU always expects legal migration from Bangladesh, adding that there is huge potential for sending skilled and semi-skilled workers.
On security cooperation, Miller said the EU is working closely with Bangladesh, particularly in enhancing the capacity of the Coast Guard. He called for further cooperation in the military sphere between Bangladesh and the European Union.
Commenting on the Rohingya crisis, the ambassador said: “The EU will continue its support to Bangladesh in addressing this issue. The only solution is their repatriation to Myanmar, but this must be voluntary and in a peaceful environment.”
On Gaza, the EU envoy remarked that the situation is “catastrophic for the world.”