Momen trashes report of new US sanctions

Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen on Monday binned a news article published in a national daily on new sanctions to be imposed by the US on Bangladesh and said it was very strange as no source was mentioned.

"They have provided false information. Very strange as no source was cited," said the minister at a press conference on Monday.

However, he said he had no idea if there would be more US sanctions. "They never tell us beforehand. America is imposing thousands of sanctions on almost every country.

"We hope America will come to its senses and not do this."

Regarding the report's claim that he had worked as a Chinese lobbyist before becoming a minister, Momen said, "This is a big lie. I have never worked for any Chinese company and was not a lobbyist.

"On the contrary, you can say I have been in the US all my life. Very strange! They knowingly gave false information."

Explaining the prime minister's recent remarks on the US, the foreign minister said politicians say many things that have a warning for other countries.

"I cannot say what that literally means. But I can say it is an indication that Bangladesh is a nation of victory. We are not a throwaway country," he added.

He said, "We are not as poor as we used to be, we do not live on charity. As a nation we have pride. We have a position. We have triumphed over various hostile environments.

"We will not stumble if someone threatens us."

In a recent interview with the BBC during her visit to the UK, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina launched a scathing critique against the US, accusing the country of harbouring a bias against her administration.

She pointed out the sanctions imposed on the Rapid Action Battalion as a reflection of that bias.

US Embassy issues alert about demonstrations

The foreign minister expressed grief regarding an alert notification issued by the US Embassy in Dhaka on Sunday advising American citizens to be careful about demonstrations prior to the national election.

He said it is regrettable that such a notification was issued by the US Embassy mere months before the national election.

There should be alerts issued in the US to remain careful while visiting malls or schools or bars, he said.

"There are no shootings in our country. People are not killed during demonstrations. The number of deaths in atrocities on roads is almost zero. So, why such an alert?" he asked.

The notification states, "The next general election is anticipated to occur before or during January 2024, and political party rallies and other election-related activities have already commenced.  Political rallies and demonstrations may be held with increasing frequency or intensity as the general election draws nearer.

"US citizens should practise vigilance and remember that demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.  You should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings.  Review personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates."