U.S. embassy statement

DHAKA, Oct. 27 (nsnewswire) — America continues to urge the major parties in Bangladesh to engage in constructive dialogue to find an agreed way forward to hold free, fair and credible elections. Ambassador Mozena said he is encouraged by developments, including most recently the telephone conversation between Prime Minister Hasina and Begum Zia, and hopes these positive developments will culminate soon in a constructive dialogue between the major parties on the best way forward for achieving free, fair and credible elections.

America’s message to all political players is that violence is not a part of the democratic process and is not acceptable. While engaging in peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right, we firmly believe that violence is never the answer. We are concerned by the violence and deaths that have occurred. We look to the Government of Bangladesh to ensure the safety of all its citizens and encourage all Bangladeshis to peacefully express their views. We call on all parties to ensure that they use peaceful means to pursue their objectives.