PM for showing zero tolerance towards militancy, terrorism

DHAKA, July 13 (BSS) - Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today reiterated her government's firm commitment to show zero tolerance towards militancy and terrorism.

"Our government by no means will allow terrorism and militancy in the country as our aim is to build a peaceful Bangladesh," she said when the outgoing British high commissioner to Bangladesh, Stephen Evans, paid a farewell call on her at her office here.

Referring to various steps taken by her government to combat terrorism and militancy in the country, the Premier said human
rights and justice have already been ensured in the society.

Later briefing newsmen, PM's Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad said the Prime Minister emphasized establishing peace in South Asia and maintaining good relations with neighbouring countries. "People as a whole would benefit if excellent relations exist among the neighbouring countries," she added.

The Prime Minister said her government has already taken various measurers to further strengthen the Election Commission (EC) although the commission has been working independently at present.

"Now, the EC is working independently as her government does not interfere in the affairs of the commission. Our government believes in voting rights of people for which her party struggled for long," she said.

Mentioning the Habiganj by-poll, mayoral election in the Chittagong City Corporation (CCC) and the local body elections,Sheikh Hasina said these polls had proved the government's sincerity towards free, fair, neutral and acceptable elections.

She said these local government elections and the by-polls were held in a free, fair and peaceful manner which were acclaimed at home and abroad.

In this context, she thanked the British government for its support to hold the last parliamentary elections in a free and fair manner and restoration of democracy in Bangladesh.

The Prime Minister referred to various development programmes being implemented under public-private partnership (PPP) to turn Bangladesh into a middle-income country by 2021.

The outgoing UK High Commissioner assured Sheikh Hasina of his country's continued support and cooperation for strengthening democracy and economic development of Bangladesh.

Evans thanked the Premier for extending allout support to him in discharging his duties in the country smoothly.

Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister M A Karim and Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad were present on the occasion.

Posted in: PM for showing zero tolerance towards militancy,terrorism