Ministers say not worried about new US visa policy

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on Thursday said there is nothing to worry about the newly announced US visa policy, reports UNB.

With this announcement, he hoped that parties which resort to violence, arson and destruction would remain cautious.

Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Muhammad Abdur Razzaque said the Awami League was not concerned by the US visa curbs as they were not imposed on any particular party.

"We don‍‍`t want arson, violence and destruction. I hope these acts will come down," Momen told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs when his comment was sought.

Responding to a question, Momen said they are not under any additional pressure from the US, noting that the relationship with the US is excellent.

He said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina wants free and fair elections and this policy will further strengthen her position.

"We want free and fair elections. Our Prime Minister is committed to it," Momen said, adding that Awami League always believes in voters.

The Foreign Minister said they see very positively that they received from the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

This policy supports Prime Minister Hasina’s stated commitment to hold free and fair elections in Bangladesh, Momen said, quoting the letter.

He mentioned the use of transparent ballot boxes that made the norm to establish confidence among the electorates as well as the polling officials and agents.

Momen also mentioned a strong National Election Commission is in place.

"It‍‍`s a message for all," Razzaque said while talking about the visa policy.

He was briefing journalists after a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen at the ministry in the Secretariat.

The US visa restriction will be applicable to unconstitutional forces and all political parties that thwart democracy, he said.

Razzaque pointed out that some political parties tried to foil the democratic process in 2014.

"I believe BNP, Jatiya Party and others will participate in the election," he said.

Replying to a question, he said the government is giving importance to the issue.