Foreign Affairs Adviser. Tauhid Hossain said that even though Tariq Rahman was not present here, the leadership of BNP was in his hands. If he does not enter Dhaka, the election will not be held, or will not be fair – I do not think it is right.
He said these things at the DCAB Talk titled 'Foreign Policy of Bangladesh: Relevant Role in a Changing World' organized by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Bangladesh (DCAB) at the National Press Club in the capital on Sunday (November 30) afternoon.
“Whether or not the election will be fair depends on other factors,” said the foreign affairs adviser. I don't think the election will be spoiled because of one person, or because of being away. Let's see, there is time, I don't know what will happen in the end.''
Tauhid Hossain said, “I know about Tarek Rahman's interest in coming to the country from newspapers. I don't have any specific information in this regard.”
Referring to the lack of coordination in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he said, “It happens to some extent. A lot of people, especially in our region, say things they shouldn't talk about, it happens. This is also seen in India. There's nothing to be so upset about.''
In response to a question about setting up a military base in India's Chicken Neck, he said, “The agreement India has with us is that no one will build infrastructure within 500 yards of the border. It is not within that boundary. So we have no right to object. They are doing it to fight Bangladesh – there is no reason to think so. If they feel it is necessary for their defense, they can do that.''
In response to another question, he said, “When someone does not have a passport, or it is expired, if someone wants to come, we give a one-time pass from the mission to come to the country.” It takes a day to pay. So if Tariq Rahman says he will come today, we can give it tomorrow. He can board the plane with it. He himself said about his status, I know less about this. All I can say is — there is no restriction from the Bangladesh government.''
Regarding Khaleda Zia, the foreign adviser said, “Khaleda Zia is not in a position to be taken abroad at the moment.” He will be taken when he recovers a bit. Arrangements are being made by his party, we are assisting.''
Regarding Bhutan's transshipment being stuck in Bangladesh, Tauhid Hossain said, “Shipments cannot go through India to other countries without India's permission.” Because Nepal has no border with us. If we had a border with us, we could easily bring electricity from Bhutan. So if we want to bring in, we need India's help, same thing in business.''
Regarding Ajit Doval's meeting with the National Security Advisor, he said, “What was discussed in the meeting between the security advisors of the two countries is not supposed to be published. What he shared with me, I can't tell him if he doesn't want to tell. I am sure Ajit Doval talked to him but did not tell India. No security adviser does that.”
