Blinken tells Momen US looks to Bangladesh for an example of free, fair polls

They meet in Washington as the two countries celebrate 50 years of ties at a time when Bangladesh is preparing for the next general election

Antony Blinken has told AK Abdul Momen the US and the rest of the world are looking to Bangladesh for exemplary free and fair polls in the next general election.

Foreign Minister Momen met the US secretary of state in Washington on Monday afternoon local time as the two countries are celebrating 50 years of ties at a time when Bangladesh is preparing for the next parliamentary polls.

Blinken said the relationship between Bangladesh and the United States grew “tremendously” over the last 50 years economically.

He emphasised people-to-people ties as “we've been doing more recently on everything” from climate to health.

Blinken said the US also “deeply” appreciates Bangladesh's “remarkable” generosity in sheltering more than 1 million Rohingya refugees from Myanmar.

“We're committed to continuing to work together to find ways to strengthen and deepen the relationship to address economic development, human rights,” he said.

“And of course we're looking to, the world is looking to Bangladesh, for next elections to make sure that they set a strong example of free and fair elections for the region and for the world.”

Momen said Bangladesh and the US have a “multi-faceted, dynamic and wide-ranging” relationship. “Over the last 50 years we have done very well. And we look forward to the next 50 years.”

“We achieved all with your support and active partnership and we are proud of your partnership and we look beyond so that we can have better days in future. I am here to strengthen and solidify our relationship.”

Before the meeting, Momen said they would discuss ways to further strengthen ties, especially in trade.

He also said Bangladesh would raise its demand for the deportation of Rashed Chowdhury, a fugitive convict in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman murder case, from the US during the meeting.

“I hope the US will not become a safe haven for murderers,” he said.