Dhaka: Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, has reiterated its lack of political ambitions, focusing instead on establishing a robust democratic system in the country. This assurance was conveyed to the UK Minister Catherine West, who serves as the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Indo-Pacific, during her visit to Bangladesh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting between Touhid and West took place earlier in the day, where Bangladesh sought support from the UK for its reform initiatives. “I made it clear to her … we have no political ambitions. Our aim is to relinquish power only after ensuring a robust democratic system,” Touhid stated at a press briefing held at the foreign ministry. The UK minister expressed a willingness to cooperate and sought further details on potential support mechanisms for the interim government’s initiatives.
A key topic of discussion was the need for enhanced cooperation in tracing and repatriating stole
n assets to Bangladesh, which is a priority for the interim government. Touhid emphasized the confidential nature of these efforts, noting ongoing collaborations with several countries.
In addition to these discussions, Touhid confirmed that the foreign ministry is assisting former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia in processing her British visa. The meeting also addressed major bilateral issues, aligning the priorities of both the British and Bangladeshi governments.
Touhid expressed gratitude to the UK government for its continued support, highlighting its role in maintaining political stability and fostering democratic progress in Bangladesh. Both parties committed to strengthening their bilateral relationship and enhancing cooperation.
Catherine West’s visit marks the first by a UK minister since the interim government was formed. She expressed her support for Bangladesh’s goals of restoring peace, accountability, and national reconciliation, emphasizing the UK government’s backing of these objectives.
D
uring her two-day visit, West underscored the importance of building a strong partnership with Bangladesh, focusing on a range of issues from economics and trade to security, migration, and climate change. She reiterated the UK’s steadfast friendship with Bangladesh and the shared vision for a democratic future.