Kerry moved by Bangabandhu’s ‘simplicity of life style’

US Secretary of State John Kerry, who spent a busy day during his maiden visit to Bangladesh on Monday, said he was moved by the ‘simplicity of life style’ of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, reports the UNB. 

 

Immediately after that, Kerry met Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at her office and expressed his ‘sentiments’ to witness the piece of history of Bangladesh at the museum, according to a foreign ministry statement issued on Tuesday afternoon.

 

Upon arrival, Kerry commenced his official engagement by paying homage to the memory of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the martyred members of his family by placing a wreath at Bangabandhu Memorial Museum, Dhanmondi.

 

State Minister for Foreign Affairs M Shahriar Alam and grandson of the Father of the Nation Radwan Siddiq Bobby received him and showed him around the museum.

 

Kerry also made a note in the visitors' book which says, “What a tragedy to have such brilliant and courageous leadership stolen from the people of Bangladesh in such a moment of violence and cowardice.

 

But today Bangladesh is growing in the vision of Bangabandhu and under the strong leadership of his daughter.  The United States is proud to be a friend and strong supporter of the fulfillment of his vision. We look forward to growing and working together for peace and prosperity.”

 

The issue of repatriation of the self-confessed convicted killer of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman from the United States to Bangladesh was raised and discussed with utmost importance.

 

Secretary Kerry assured the Prime Minister that he would look into this matter after his return to Washington DC, said the foreign secretary here.

 

Kerry recognized the impressive progress achieved by Bangladesh in food security, health, education and many other socioeconomic sectors over the past few years and commended the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in advancing the development of Bangladesh.

 

The issues of bilateral trade, investment and duty- and quota-free access of Bangladesh products to the US market were discussed in details.

 

Kerry greatly appreciated Bangladesh’s partnership with the US in the area of security and development.

 

He lauded the recent move of the Law Enforcement Agencies to curb the terrorist activities and offered his government's support and assistance to the tremendous efforts of government of Bangladesh in this regard.

 

During the meeting, among other issues climate change and post-COP 21 situation were discussed at length. 

 

Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Nisha Desai Biswal, Senior Director for South Asia of National Security Council Peter Lavoy and Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Manpreet Anand accompanied him during his day-long visit.

 

Secretary Kerry came to convey the message of goodwill and support of the US government for Bangladesh.