The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

British High Commissioner in Dhaka Anwar Choudhury yesterday said he is extremely hopeful about free, fair and credible elections with maximum participation.

"We not only want democracy but a strong democracy that will deliver for the development of Bangladesh," he said after meetings with BNP acting secretary general Maj (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed and Jatiya Party chairman HM Ershad at their respective houses.

Choudhury said these were his farewell calls, as he was deeply engaged with these parties in his four years' stay in Bangladesh.

After the meeting with Hafiz, he said they discussed many issues including the future of Bangladesh and the elections.

Asked about the state of emergency, the outgoing British envoy said it should be lifted to maximum possible extent ensuring the law and order and the safety of the voters.

Hafiz praised the High Commissioner for his active role in promoting Dhaka-London relations to a new height. He deplored the heinous attacks on the High Commissioner in Sylhet.

"People will remember him for long. He is a genuine friend of Bangladesh," Hafiz said.

Ershad told reporters that they discussed about the holding of a meaningful election free from corruption.

He said Jatiya Party would participate in the general elections that should be preceded by upazila parishad, City Corporation and municipal elections.