‘Bangladesh is not a small country’

June 21, 1972

BANGABANDHU'S INTERVIEW WITH THE TELEGRAPH

In an interview with London-based newspaper The Telegraph, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman says that Bangladesh is now a reality and Pakistan should accept this reality for its own sake. He further says that it does not matter to him whether Pakistan recognises Bangladesh or not. Pakistan is no less eager to get recognition from Bangladesh, adds the PM.

Bangabandhu shares, "Bangladesh is not a small country. It is a country of 70 million people. All the big powers have already accorded recognition to Bangladesh and the country is now a member of several international organisations including the UN and the Commonwealth. Middle Eastern countries still abstain from recognising Bangladesh due to the incessant persuasion and propaganda by the Pakistan government. However, Indonesia, which has the largest Muslim population in the world, has already recognised Bangladesh."

The prime minister expresses his hope that Middle Eastern countries will rethink their decision and accord recognition to Bangladesh soon.

When asked about the internal law and order situation, the prime minister says although certain quarters are yet to surrender their arms, the government is in full control of the country and he can take any measures he feels necessary. Bangabandhu reiterates, "The people of Bangladesh love me, they listen to me, they will not do anything that will harm the prospect of the country."

CABINET MEETS

The Cabinet today meets for about six hours in two sessions. The cabinet meeting presided over by Bangabandhu is understood to have discussed the outline and content of the development plan for FY1972-73.

UN SANCTIONS $18 CRORE

The UN has sanctioned 18 crore dollars for war-torn Bangladesh as part of its regular development programme. The decision is taken at a conference of donors held in Geneva today.

SOURCES: June 22, 1972 issue of Purbodesh