Committed to PEOPLE'S RIGHT TO KNOW
Vol. 5 Num 29 Fri. June 25, 2004  
   
Front Page


Crowley hails Bangladesh


Congressman Joseph Crowley has said India and Bangladesh are still developing and becoming strong democracies.

He was at a hearing on South Asia yesterday at the House International Relations Committee. Assistant Secretary of State for South Asian Affairs Christina Rocca testified on Wednesday.

Crowley said, "One such nation I would suggest that needs our friendship is Bangladesh. Bangladesh has made great strides over the past few years. When I visited Bangladesh in January with my colleague Congressman Meeks, we had the opportunity to meet Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and many of her cabinet ministers as well as Sheikh Hasina, president of the Awami League. During our meetings, we tried to stress the importance of working through the democratic process."

"As we see in Congress, we may not agree with the position of the other party, but it is imperative to remain engaged in the process for democracy to work. I am hopeful some of the necessary reforms will begin to be implemented now that the opposition party has decided to reenter the parliament. Hartals do not serve the people of Bangladesh -- when Meeks and I met Sehikh Hasina, we were vocal in our opposition to these strikes and street protests. I am confident the people of Bangladesh will benefit greatly now that the Awami League has rejoined the parliament."

Assistant Secretary Rocca praised Congressman Crowley for his efforts on behalf of Bangladesh, and urged him to continue his good work and his positive statements regarding the progress in Bangladesh.