US prepared to extend support for ‘free, fair, peaceful’ election in Bangladesh: Haas

US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas today said that they are prepared to extend support to the declared goal of a "free, fair, and peaceful" election in Bangladesh.

He said USA's goal is not to interfere in the election but to support the goal that allows people to freely choose who they want to run the country.

"We speak out frequently in support of the goal," said Ambassador Haas while speaking at Ambassador Talk Series on the occasion of International Day of Peace.

The US ambassador also said it is the collective responsibility of the entire world to make sure that conditions are in place in Myanmar so that the Rohingyas can return to their homeland with dignity.

"They need to be protected, educated, and they need to enjoy dignity where they are living," he said while attending an event as a keynote speaker.

The US ambassador said the Rohingyas should not be punished for the action taken by Myanmar and they should be treated well without any discrimination.

Ambassador Haas laid emphasis on constant collective pressure on Myanmar, noting that the solution to the crisis unfortunately is not so easy.

He said they are also exploring the option of resettlement, but it offers very limited opportunity as it is meant for only the most vulnerable people.

The ambassador also highlighted the importance of holding people responsible for the genocide.

He appreciated Bangladesh's generosity in providing shelter to the Rohingyas; otherwise, he thinks the situation would have been far worse.