In a significant gathering held in Room 108 of the British Parliament, the Commonwealth All-Party Parliamentary Group convened to address the alarming reports of brutality against Hindu minorities in Bangladesh following the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The meeting, hosted by APPG Chair Andrew Rosindell, brought together members from various political parties, emphasizing the UK’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh during a tumultuous time.
Rosindell conveyed a crucial message to the current interim government and Dr. Muhammad Yunus, the main advisor, expressing deep concern over the recent incidents affecting minority communities. He stated, “We want to see stability return and the rule of law established once again in Bangladesh. Prosperity and democracy must be restored, putting the nation back on the path of governance and peace.”
Highlighting the historical and cultural ties between the UK and Bangladesh, Rosindell reiterated the importance of mutual respect and understanding. “As friends, we are concerned about the situation in Bangladesh, especially since many members of our Parliament have Bangladeshi roots. While we do not intend to interfere in internal affairs, our apprehensions stem from a place of friendship and solidarity,” he added.
The meeting aimed to explore ways in which the UK could support Bangladesh in achieving a prosperous and stable future. Rosindell emphasized that the UK could play a small yet significant role in this endeavor, reinforcing the commitment to fostering a strong relationship moving forward.
This gathering of cross-party members of Parliament and the House of Lords underscores the importance of addressing human rights concerns and promoting democratic values in the region. The discussions reflect a growing awareness and urgency to respond to the challenges facing minority communities in Bangladesh, as the international community closely watches the developments.