The interim government has expressed deep concern and distress over remarks made by US Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard regarding Bangladesh in an interview with Indian television channel NDTV World.
“The interim government has noted with deep concern and distress the remarks made by DNI Tulsi Gabbard, in which she alleged ‘persecution and killing’ of religious minorities in Bangladesh and claimed that ‘the threat of Islamic terrorists’ in the country is ‘rooted’ in the ‘ideology and objective’ to ‘rule and govern with an Islamist caliphate,’” said a statement issued by the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing tonight.
"This statement by Tulsi Gabbard is both misleading and damaging to the image and reputation of Bangladesh, a nation whose traditional practice of Islam has been famously inclusive and peaceful and that has made remarkable strides in its fight against extremism and terrorism," it said.
“Gabbard's comments are not based on any evidence or specific allegations,” it said, adding that they paint an entire nation with a broad and unjustified brush.
Bangladesh, like many countries around the world, has faced challenges of extremism but has continuously worked in partnership with the international community, including the US, to address these issues through law enforcement, social reforms, and other counterterrorism efforts, the statement added.
"Groundlessly linking Bangladesh to the idea of an 'Islamist caliphate' undermines the hard work of countless Bangladeshis and their friends and partners around the world who are committed to peace, stability, and progress," it said.
Bangladesh strongly condemns any attempts to associate the country with an “Islamist caliphate,” the statement noted.
Political leaders and public figures should base their statements, especially on sensitive issues, on actual knowledge and ensure they do not reinforce harmful stereotypes, fuel fears, or stoke sectarian tensions.
"In support of our shared global efforts to combat extremism and terrorism, the interim government of Bangladesh remains committed to engaging in constructive dialogue based on facts and respect for the sovereignty and security of all nations," the statement read.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
