Dhaka, Aug 22 (V7N): Rory Mungoven, the Chief of the Asia-Pacific Region at the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, clarified today that his visit to Bangladesh this week is exploratory in nature. He explained that the visit aims to initiate preliminary discussions and offer support to the interim government during this significant period.

"My visit this week is not an investigation; it's really an exploratory visit to engage with the interim government, advisors, ministries, civil society, and a broad spectrum of Bangladesh's population to understand your priorities and needs going forward. We also aim to explore areas where the Office of the High Commissioner could provide assistance, including in fact-finding investigations," Mungoven stated after meeting with Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen at his office this morning.

He further noted, "We need to discuss how we could work together, the modalities of our cooperation, and how we could support the national process moving forward. It's still early to determine the specific help that will be provided. Our mission's objective is to explore ways we could support Bangladesh at this time."

Highlighting the views of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, Mungoven added, "Türk is deeply inspired by the courage and commitment of the Bangladeshi people, especially the youth and students, towards democracy and human rights. He sees this as a pivotal moment for the country to restore democracy, renew institutions, and advance human rights."

"Türk wants the Office to support the interim government, civil society, and the people of Bangladesh in any way possible," he added.

Mungoven also stressed, "The High Commissioner and the international community strongly support the Bangladeshi people's efforts to achieve human rights and uphold democracy during this crucial time."

A preliminary team from the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is currently in Dhaka to explore ways to assist in investigating human rights violations related to recent unrest and violence.

The team will continue their mission according to their planned activities, an official stated today (22 August). During their visit, they are expected to meet with various government advisers and civil society representatives to gather information.

This initiative was announced by UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk during a recent conversation with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus.

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