In a recent statement, the United States underscored the importance of its relationship with Bangladesh and called upon the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety and security of foreign missions and personnel in the country, including those from the United States.
US State Department Spokesperson, Matthew Miller, addressed reporters during a regular briefing on Thursday, September 28, emphasizing the significance of the diplomatic ties between the two nations. While Miller refrained from discussing specific details regarding security measures at the US embassy in Dhaka or the personnel stationed there, he reiterated the paramount importance of safeguarding diplomatic personnel, in line with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
Miller stated, “The safety and security of our diplomatic personnel is of the utmost importance to us. As per the Vienna Convention, every host country must uphold its obligations to ensure the protection of all diplomatic mission premises and take all diplomatic steps to prevent any attack on personnel.”
Responding to questions about the US Embassy’s remarks regarding visa restrictions on media, Miller declined to provide specific details, saying, “I’m not going to announce specific steps, preview steps that we might take from the podium.”
Furthermore, the State Department Spokesperson revealed that the United States had already taken steps to impose restrictions on certain individuals under the authority of the Secretary. These restrictions target members of law enforcement, the ruling party, and the political opposition who are believed to be responsible for or complicit in undermining free and fair elections in Bangladesh.
Miller clarified, “We retain the option to impose sanctions on other individuals if and when we believe it’s appropriate.” This indicates that the United States is ready to take additional measures in response to actions it perceives as undermining democratic processes in Bangladesh.
The United States’ stance highlights the importance of diplomacy and cooperation between the two nations while reaffirming its commitment to protect its diplomatic personnel and interests in Bangladesh.
