Photo: Collected
Foreign Affairs Advisor of the interim government, Md. Touhid Hossain, has stated that the government's ultimate goal is to move towards elections. He emphasized that the government will step down through the electoral process.
He made these remarks on Sunday (August 11) during a briefing with journalists at the Foreign Ministry auditorium. The meeting began with a minute of silence in memory of those who lost their lives in the recent student protests.
The Foreign Affairs Advisor stated that the current government's final objective is to hand over power through a fair election. He added that the government does not have a particular alignment, whether with the United States, China, or India, and seeks to maintain good relations with all parties while safeguarding the country's interests.
He further mentioned that at present, the government is engaged in a "firefighting job" to restore stability, which will take some time. The duration of the government's term will be determined after stability is achieved.
Regarding the recent protests and violence, the Foreign Affairs Advisor noted that the exact number of casualties has not yet been finalized. An initial list of 450 victims has been compiled, but it will be verified under the supervision of two coordinators within the government.
The advisor also mentioned that several countries have witnessed protests in support of the anti-discrimination movement. In the UAE, several workers were detained and even jailed. The government is closely monitoring the situation and is striving to ensure that they do not suffer. The Chief Advisor is expected to speak directly with the higher authorities soon, hoping to secure their release without punishment, with further assistance provided as needed. He (Dr. Yunus) himself will also engage at a higher level to ensure they do not face any penalties.
Touhid Hossain commented that these individuals might have violated local laws, so the government cannot blame the host country. They have acted according to their laws. However, given the sentiments of these expatriates, many might have overlooked the legal constraints. The government will make efforts to secure their release.
Speaking about the country's economic situation, the Foreign Affairs Advisor said, "Business and trade are being affected, and this cannot be denied. A competent person has been given the responsibility of overseeing the economy. He is working diligently, and it is expected that the situation will be streamlined within 1 to 2 months."
Touhid further stated, "As you know, the Governor of Bangladesh Bank has resigned. A qualified person is being sought to fill the position, which has become quite challenging. We are trying to appoint a new Governor and also looking to appoint a Deputy Governor."
The Foreign Affairs Advisor also mentioned, "The person in charge of law and order was busy all day. We might see some improvement in the situation within 1 to 2 days. A foreign journalist asked me if the students would return home. They will return once those responsible have taken charge, and the students will then go back."
Messenger/Shahed
