Awami League (AL) General Secretary Obaidul Quader today (Feb 27) said that the government values friendly relations with foreign nations but does not adhere to any form of foreign dominance.
Quader, also Road Transport and Bridges Minister, came up with the remark after three-day visit by a US delegation that ended on Monday.
During the first visit of the US delegation following the January 7 national election, the team conducted various meetings with top government ministers, BNP leaders, and labour representatives.
While addressing a press conference held at Awami League President Sheikh Hasina’s Dhanmondi political office, Quader said, “We don’t accept the slavery of those who want to play a role of the lordship instead of a friend.”
Referring to the visit of the US delegation, Quader said that the US team also expressed their enthusiasm to advance the bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and the US based on a mutual understanding.
Responding to a query over a meeting between the US delegation and BNP, he said the party wanted to know from the delegation that Washington would impose sanctions on the government but their desire went in vain.
“Our ears have gone damaged hearing the BNP’s broken record of lies. Their voices have somewhat weakened due to the continuation of the falsehoods. However, the venom in their words has intensified,” he said.
BNP abstained from participating in the national election out of fear of a complete failure, which was a grave mistake, Quader said adding that the party is now attempting to shift the burden for its mistake to the government.
Responding to another query over the price hike of essential commodities, he said that his government has nothing to do in this regard as it is an outcome of the global financial crisis.
“The commodity prices are on the rise worldwide, yet our people still have the purchasing capacity. We hope the price of food products will remain under control during the month of Ramadan,” he said.
When asked about the rising meat prices due to extortion, he said, “Yes of course it is a matter of concern. Our prime minister has already strongly warned against the extortion and asked all authorities concerned to take action in this regard,” said the AL leader.
BDST: 1723 HRS, FEB 27, 2024
MSK/SMS
