EU wants successful pol transition, not early or late polls

Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union (EU) Michael Miller on Thursday talked to journalists in Rajshahi

Rajshahi, May 29 - Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union (EU) Michael Miller on Thursday said it is not their business to press for for holding an "early or late" election but wants to see a successful political transition in Bangladesh.

"We think any decision on a date for your election is a Bangladeshi decision. It is not for the European Union to have an opinion to press you to hold an early election or late election. It is simply not....it is really not our business," he told reporters at Grand Riverview Hotel in Rajshahi.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is pressing for the election by December this year while the interim government says the election is likely to be held between December 2025 to June 2026 depending on reforms.

Ambassador Miller said they support this political transition in Bangladesh.

"We want your political transition to be a successful transition," he said, adding that they are following events in Bangladesh closely.

Ambassador Miller said they are aware of the work of the National Consensus Commission.

"We can bring expertise to help implement your reform agenda," he said, highlighting the importance of respecting fundamental rights, rule of law and following due process.

Ambassador Miller said they are trying to very supportive towards Bangladesh's efforts in its journey towards transition.

He also said it Bangladesh's decision which parties are registered or not as there are a number of cases of registration and deregistratoon.

Ambassador Miller said Rajshahi's mangoes are appreciated all over the world and said mangoes from this region can make a big place in the European market.

Not only mangoes, he said, there are many other products here that can be exported to the international market.

The Ambassador said the European Union is ready to cooperate to utilise this potential.

He also said a fruitful meeting has already been held with the Rajshahi Chamber of Commerce and expressed hope that this will pave the way for closer trade relations.

Ambassador Miller praised the planned infrastructure and sound environment of Rajshahi city.

"Rajshahi city is very clean and well-planned. I am impressed by the sincerity and hospitality of the people here," he said. - UNB