Dhaka, Dec 4 (UNB) - The United States has welcomed the ongoing efforts of Bangladesh's interim government to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.

A spokesperson for the US Department of State made this statement in response to a question from Voice of America Bangla on Tuesday (Dec 3).

Addressing concerns about alleged inaction by the interim government regarding the safety of minority communities, the State Department noted via an emailed response: "We condemn any acts of violence or intolerance towards members of minority communities and welcome the interim government's continued efforts to ensure the security of all citizens in Bangladesh."

When asked about the US position on alleged persecution of minority communities in Bangladesh, the Department further stated:

"The United States supports freedom of religion or belief, freedom of expression, and the rights to peaceful assembly and association as fundamental freedoms. We consistently communicate our support for these rights to the interim government of Bangladesh and our other partners."

The US State Department also addressed concerns surrounding the designation of ISKCON as a "terrorist organisation" in Bangladesh and the ongoing legal troubles of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari. The spokesperson noted:

"These issues should be resolved by the government of Bangladesh in line with the rights guaranteed by its constitution and laws. We urge Bangladesh, as we do all countries, to uphold freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, association, and religion or belief."

India-Bangladesh Tensions

Tensions have risen between Bangladesh and India over the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das and the reported persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh. Responding to a question about the US role in promoting regional security amid these developments, the State Department spokesperson said:

"We deeply value our relationships with both Bangladesh and India. We leave the matter of their diplomatic relations to the respective governments."

END/UNB/Corr/SAM/1212 hrs