Stating that BNP and the government’s position is identical that there is no existence of IS in Bangladesh, the party yesterday suggested ministers to refrain from making any comment against foreign friends that may affect the country’s bilateral ties. Speaking at a press briefing at BNP’s Nayapaltan central office, party spokesman Asaduzzaman Ripon also voiced concern over the some ministers’ recent remarks blaming the USA for the emergence of Islamic State (IS).
“US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Nisha Desai Biswal is scheduled to arrive here along with another top leader on December 12. Ahead of such an important visit, some ministers, especially that of the information, Biman and food, are making various comments against the US.”
He further said, “There’s no reason for us to debate which country is behind the creation of IS. Our foreign policy is friendship to all and malice to none. So, if the government points its finger against the USA and blame them, it may affect our foreign policy. Our party believes, without having any clear knowledge, we should not make any comment against any country that may dent our friendly ties.” Mentioning that Bangladesh has some internal problems with the US as it is yet to restore GSP facilities, Ripon said, “We’ve strong commercial ties with the US. So, we should not expose our enmity towards any country by making derogatory comments against it.” The BNP spokesman urged the government to concentrate on resolving the country’s political and democratic problems instead of blaming foreign friends.