Dhaka:Jatiya Sangsad (JS) Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikrom, emphasized Norway's consistent support in promoting parliamentary democracy in Bangladesh during a meeting with Norwegian Ambassador Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen at the JS Bhaban.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Hafiz Uddin Ahmad noted the historical ties between Bangladesh and Norway, dating back to the Liberation War in 1971. He highlighted the ongoing cooperation in democratic governance, human rights, and international peace, expressing hope for further strengthening these areas.
During the meeting, the speaker discussed the political evolution in Bangladesh, criticizing the 17 years of authoritarian rule that deprived citizens of democratic rights. He accused the Awami League government of conducting farcical elections, which he claimed undermined parliamentary democracy, while also mentioning issues of enforced disappearances, killings, terrorism, and extrajudicial actions.
Hafiz Uddin Ahmad also brought up the imprisonment of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia and opposition leaders, and he highlighted the significant July mass uprising of 2024, which he said ended authoritarian rule and paved the way for democratic progress. He praised the 13th Jatiya Sangsad election as one of the most credible in the nation's history and mentioned the government's efforts to fulfill democratic aspirations.
The speaker underscored Bangladesh's global commitment to human rights and called for international assistance to repatriate Rohingya refugees. He suggested that Norway and other European nations could support this effort.
The Norwegian ambassador acknowledged Bangladesh's significant contribution to United Nations peacekeeping operations and expressed Norway's readiness to assist in promoting democracy and human rights in Bangladesh. They also discussed forming a parliamentary friendship group, exchanging delegations, and the Nobel Peace Prize's role in recognizing global peacekeeping efforts.
Additionally, the meeting touched on the activities of the Constitution Amendment Committee and the July Charter. The speaker invited Norwegian companies to explore oil and gas opportunities in Bangladesh's coastal areas, including Bhola. Representatives from the Norwegian Embassy, the Bangladesh Parliament Secretariat, and senior officials were present at the meeting.