The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has strongly criticized the US State Department spokesperson, Mathew Miller, for his recent statement alleging at least two deaths in the ongoing student protests in Bangladesh.

"We are extremely disappointed by the response of Mathew Miller…use of unverified information to make such baseless claims can fuel violence and undermine Bangladesh government's efforts to maintain a peaceful environment to allow non-violent protests or movement," said the ministry in a statement published today.

"Freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are cornerstones of democracy, and the government remains steadfast to uphold those rights of the citizens while also safeguarding the public property and order", read the ministry statement.

Earlier, during a press briefing at the State Department in Washington, Miller emphasized that freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are fundamental to democracy.

He assured that the government is committed to upholding these rights of citizens, while also ensuring the protection of public property and maintaining order.

Miller stated that the US was closely monitoring reports of extensive student protests and incidents of violence against students in Dhaka and throughout Bangladesh.

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