The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Bangladesh has been de-listed from the US watch list as the American government is now happy with the situation of human rights, minority communities, and women's safety and empowerment in the country.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was apprised of the US government's stand when Bangladesh Ambassador to the United States Akramul Qader paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister at her office yesterday.

"The USA excluded the name of Bangladesh from its watch list on November 3 following the improvement of situation in various human rights fields," the Ambassador said.

He said the United States put Bangladesh on its watch list "due to the violation of human rights, oppression on the minority communities, women repression as well as rise of militancy during the last BNP-Jamaat government".

The envoy also informed the Prime Minister that the US government is also well-informed about the empowerment and development of women since the present democratic government assumed office.

During the meeting, the ambassador also apprised the Prime Minister of different matters and activities of the Bangladesh Embassy in the United States.

Sheikh Hasina advised the ambassador about various matters and asked him to work "sincerely for further strengthening Bangladesh's existing friendly relations with the United States".

Press Secretary to the Prime Minister Abul Kalam Azad briefed newsmen after the meeting.