Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader has said India's message to the United States regarding Bangladesh should not be perceived as interference in the country's internal matters.

"Both India and the US share mutual interests in this region, particularly with respect to regional politics. Therefore, when India communicates with the United States, it is done for their own interests," Quader said while speaking at an awareness programme on dengue in the capital today (19 August).

Earlier on Friday (19 August), German-based Deutsche Welle (DW) and Indian media Anandabazar quoted diplomatic sources saying a message has been conveyed to Washington that "New Delhi is not happy with the current role of the United States on the upcoming national elections in Bangladesh." 

India believes "weakening the Sheikh Hasina government in Bangladesh will not be good for either India or the United States."

Asked about India's interference, he said, "We'd prefer not to discuss this topic. India has been a tested friend to us. Our transition from power in 1975 was not facilitated by India. Similarly, in 2001, our departure from power was a result of the people's choice."

Earlier today, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said if the news on India's diplomatic message to the US about Bangladesh was true, it was unfortunate, and would not be good for the security of the region. 

Fakhrul said it would be sad if India took action against the will of the people of Bangladesh. 

Stating that India was interfering in Bangladesh's internal affairs, the BNP secretary general said this cannot be expected from a democratic state like India. 

"We hope India will respect the democratic aspirations of the people of Bangladesh and support an acceptable election with the participation of all parties," he said.