Editorial
Troika mission
Interaction proves useful
The continued interest of the European Union (EU) in the overall progress of Bangladesh found expression in the recent visit to Dhaka of the EU Troika delegation. The meetings they have had with the government, politicians and the army chief helped the team acquire valuable insight into the complex situation prevailing in the country. After the four-day visit it appears that the EU team returns better informed about the practicality of the reforms undertaken by the government and the latter's intentions to hold a free and fair election within the stipulated time, i.e. by 2008. As a tested partner in our development endeavours, we feel the EU delegation has done the right thing by being here physically, instead of sermonising from abroad, as done by some others. We believe this is how information should be gathered about a situation in a country so that opinions can be based on ground realities rather than on perception from a distance. We appreciate the comment of the team members that the reform process was on track and that it was important to build sound foundation before holding elections. The team took a positive note of the Election Commission's plan to announce an 'Election Roadmap' by 15 July. Troika delegation also urged the Bangladesh government to look at the early lifting of ban on politics paving the way for political parties to get involved in dialogues on reforms with the EC. It is worthwhile to note that they have also urged the political parties to play their role in taking the political reform process forward. This however remains to be said that the concern of the Troika over human rights should be addressed immediately by the government in order to gain 'people's confidence in the anti-corruption drive.' We are glad that the EU delegation is going back with positive impression about Bangladesh. We at the same time welcome the chief adviser reiterating his government's commitment to holding a credible election soon after the ongoing reforms.
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