Bangladesh Minister Shahriar Alam refutes reports on threats to US Ambassador Peter Haas

DHAKA: The Bangladesh State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shahriar Alam on Monday expressed regret over the departure of the US Ambassador Peter Haas amid the announcement of the general elections in the country and called it “unfortunate”.

This comes after certain reports in Dhaka claimed that politicians from the ruling party allegedly threatened the US Ambassador regarding his perceived interference in the elections. However, the State Minister denied these allegations, asserting confidence in the country’s ability to provide adequate security for foreign guests like the ambassador.

“I have a responsibility. All the ambassadors who are posted here are our guests and we are supposed to look after them. Provide them with high security as much as they are also responsible for offering the interests of Bangladeshi diplomats abroad. We know for sure where he is, it’s all his speculation. It’s unfortunate we shouldn’t be discussing all this. But I’m not supposed to disclose his location, it, personal information and its official information. But we know,” the minister said.

Following the announcement of the election date by the election commission, US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas is reported to be leaving the country. Bangladesh is set to hold its general election on January 7.

Sources in Bangladesh informed ANI that the current status of the US Ambassador to Bangladesh reveals he is presently in Sri Lanka. (ANI)

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