“US closely monitoring BD situation, urges protection of minorities”

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Dhaka, Dec 13 - US President Joe Biden is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Bangladesh emphasising  the importance of protecting religious and ethnic minorities under the interim government, said the White House.

Addressing a news briefing on Thursday, White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby stated, "We're watching this very, very, very closely, and the president is following events closely as well."

Responding to a query from Lalit K Jha, Press Trust of India’s  (PTI's) bureau chief  in Washington DC, Kirby acknowledged the challenging security environment in Bangladesh following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

"We have been working closely with the interim government to enhance the capability of their law enforcement and security services to deal with the challenge," Kirby added.

Jha  highlighted ongoing protests by Hindu American groups, including a recent march outside the White House, against alleged attacks on Hindus and temples in Bangladesh following Sheikh Hasina's fall from power.

When asked if President Biden raised the issue during his recent meeting with Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the UN, Kirby reiterated the administration's commitment to minority protection.

"We have been very clear in our engagement with all Bangladeshi leaders that protection of religious and ethnic minorities and security for all Bangladeshis, regardless of religion or ethnicity, is critical. We want to hold them to that," Kirby said further- UNB