US holds same views with Bangladesh

The United States has said the recent acts of terrorism in various countries “have been homegrown” and they have the same views with Bangladesh government over the recent attacks here.

“So, I don't think we've a difference in the way we view your government's view of what's happening here. I think our views are very similar,” said US Ambassador Marcia Bernicat yesterday.

She made the remark after her meeting with Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Mayor Sayeed Khokon when she was asked how Bangladesh and the USA will work together with the difference on IS issue as Bangladesh government termed the attackers homegrown.

Bernicat said they all are trying to figure out who is influencing especially youths to commit these acts and how to stop them from doing that.

“Every act of terrorism that has taken place in the United States as here by people who were born and raised in the United States or emigrated…The same is true here,” she said.

“I lived here now for over a year and a half and I understand this is not Bangladeshi culture, this is not Bangladeshi politics, this is not Bangladeshi religion especially not the way Islam is practiced here,” Bernicat said.

“This is a global problem…any country that stands apart or trying to work on the problem alone is going to have a very hard time in succeeding because the terrorists themselves enjoy a global network.”

“We are stronger if we work together,” she stressed. 

“…those who criticise our efforts and think that we are trying to do something nefarious like occupy Bangladesh or destabilise Bangladesh, I just wanted to ensure everyone that we have actually the exact opposite goal in mind - a strong, stable, and prosperous Bangladesh,” she said.

Bernicat said, “You've a prime minister who absolutely has zero tolerance...her stand is so strong against terrorism. So, we simply want to bring the know-how and knowledge that we have.”

She also said Bangladesh especially after the attack on Holey Artisan Bakery has become part of the international crime scene. “So we just want to help Bangladesh.”

Mayor Sayeed Khokon said they do not think the US development projects will be affected due to the present situation.

Fundamentalism has no place in the minds of the people of Bangladesh, he added.