Talks; not violence

Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Heather Cruden yesterday urged the political parties to shun political violence and engage in a meaningful discussion.
“We are asking the government and opposition parties to clearly and publicly reject the use of political violence,” said Cruden at a book launch in the capital yesterday.
Engaging in peaceful protests is fundamental to democracy, but violence has no place in the democratic process, she added.
“We call on them to engage one another meaningfully and constructively to address the ongoing political issues and to ensure that the upcoming general election is free, fair and transparent.”
The high commissioner observed that the recent Savar tragedy along with the political violence in Bangladesh has had “a chilling effect” on the international community.
She went on, “The current political instability combined with consumer reactions in western countries is causing some companies to question whether they should diversify their risks and move out of Bangladesh.
“This could be very damaging in the medium and long term for Bangladesh.”
The High Commission of Canada in Bangladesh and the Canada Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry jointly launched the book, “International Standard Social Responsibility”, at Canada Club.