DHAKA: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina vowed on Monday that the new national government would pull out all stops to combat terrorism in the country.
 
“The new government will show zero tolerance towards terrorism,” she warned while talking to journalists at her official residence, Ganobhaban, after the Awami League was returned to power in the violence-marred elections on Sunday.  
 
She also urged the opposition BNP party to resume dialogue and disassociate itself from terrorism. “Patience is the need of the hour,” she said.
 
Regarding the war crimes trial, the AL chief said, “The trial of war criminals will continue and court verdicts will be executed.”      
 
Sheikh Hasina also congratulated countrymen for "casting their votes defying blasts and terrorism".
 
The premier profusely thanked law enforcers, including army and RAB for assisting the civilian administration in charge of the 10th parliamentary elections.
 
In response to a question, Sheikh Hasina remarked that political parties which believe in democracy and spirit of Liberation War took part in the 10th parliamentary elections.
 
She claimed that an overwhelming majority in Bangladesh is behind the new Awami League government.
 
Regarding allegations of corruption against party colleagues, she said that neither the party nor the government will shield corrupt elements. “The independent Anti-Corruption Commission will take action against them,” she told newsmen.
 
In response to a question about the new government’s foreign policy, she said, “The Awami League government will keep good relations with every country to ensure the country’s development.”
 
Asked about the possibility of international sanctions against Bangladesh, she shot back: "Why should they clamp sanctions? What`s our fault? Bangladesh is doing well in every sector, including information technology."   
 
Emphasising the significance of the Liberation War, she said: "The spirit of the Liberation War is a great unifier and, therefore, crucial for the nation`s progress and overall development."
 
Sheikh Hasina observed that "in any democracy opposition is a must", and expressed the hope that the new government will be formed with "all parties" if necessary.
 
BDST: 1745 HRS, JAN 06, 2014
Edited by: Golam Rosul, Newsroom Editor/ M. Mahbub Alam, Asst Output Editor