US to support inclusive and democratic Bangladesh: Uzra Zeya

US Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Uzra Zeya yesterday said the United States looks forward to continued collaboration supportive to an inclusive and democratic Bangladesh, in which all can thrive.

She said she has heard a "strong commitment" from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and other ministers in support of free, fair and peaceful elections in Bangladesh.

"A prosperous future depends on strong democratic institutions, and the broad participation of Bangladeshis in elections and governance of their country," she told reporters after her meeting with Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen yesterday at the State Guest House Padma.

Responding to a question, she said the timetable of the election is something for Bangladesh to decide.

Uzra Zeya said the United States, as part of their global human rights policy, supports "free, fair and peaceful" elections and they want to do their part as a long-time partner of Bangladesh to help make this possible.

"We had constructive, productive and engaging discussions. And I would say Wednesday, we witnessed large political rallies that were, thankfully, free of serious violence," she said.

They discussed the need for free and fair elections, the ability of journalists to report without fear of retaliation or intimidation, collaboration to combat trafficking in persons, and the vital role that civil society plays in democracies advancing respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedoms of expression and association.

The senior US diplomat said she came here in recognition of the importance of their partnership with Bangladesh and to underscore the US desire to deepen that partnership in support of their vision of a free and open Indo Pacific that is more resilient, more connected, more secure and more prosperous.

US maintaining pressure on Myanmar

The United States said it is "maintaining pressure" on Myanmar's military regime to end the crisis and create conditions for the eventual voluntary return of Rohingya to their homeland in a manner that is safe, dignified, informed, and sustainable.

US Under Secretary Uzra Zeya met with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday morning and discussed the issue along with other bilateral issues.

They discussed the strong and growing partnership between the United States and Bangladesh, including coordination on issues from humanitarian assistance to gender equality.

They spoke about efforts to advance a prosperous future built on strong democratic institutions, including free and fair elections; the vital role of civil society and independent media; promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedom of association and labor rights, according to the US Embassy in Dhaka.

"The US appreciates Bangladesh's generosity towards Rohingya refugees and looks forward to free and fair elections anchoring a thriving democratic future for Bangladeshis," Under Secretary Zeya tweeted after her meeting with Prime Minister Hasina.

The Under Secretary and Prime Minister also discussed Bangladesh's generous hosting of Rohingya refugees and the continued need for support from the global community.

The Under Secretary also shared that the United States is providing more than $74 million in additional humanitarian assistance to support the ongoing response efforts in Myanmar and Bangladesh, including nearly $61 million to support Rohingya internally displaced in Myanmar, Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, and their host communities, including in Bangladesh, while urging continued support by other donors and potential donors.

Given declining donor support and rising camp insecurity, the United States strongly encouraged the government of Bangladesh to expand livelihood opportunities for Rohingya refugees.

The US Under Secretary urged worldwide partners' assistance for the nearly over 1.1 million Rohingyas who fled genocide.