Dhaka, Jan 23 (V7N) — Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus has said that the upcoming February 12 general election will serve as a benchmark for all future elections in Bangladesh, calling on all stakeholders to cooperate in ensuring that the polls are held in a festive, peaceful and credible atmosphere.

Dr. Yunus made the remarks during a courtesy call by the newly appointed United States Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent T. Christensen, at the State Guest House Jamuna on Thursday (January 22).

According to a statement from the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing, the meeting covered a wide range of issues, including the national election, labor laws, proposed customs agreements, and the ongoing Rohingya refugee crisis.

The Chief Adviser said that Bangladesh expects the presence of international partners, including the European Union, to observe the upcoming election. He reiterated that the interim government is fully prepared to conduct a free, fair and transparent election on February 12.

Dr. Yunus also highlighted the government’s commitment to democratic reforms and stressed that the credibility of this election would play a crucial role in strengthening public trust in the electoral process.

US Ambassador Brent T. Christensen praised the interim government’s reform initiatives over the past 18 months and expressed Washington’s willingness to work with whichever party forms the next government following the election.

During the meeting, Dr. Yunus also discussed Bangladesh’s interest in reviving the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and exploring the possibility of ASEAN membership.

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