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<p>The British Government has been consistently clear that we wish to see a free,
fair and pluralistic election in Bangladesh. I have repeatedly encouraged the Government
of Bangladesh and opposition parties to engage in an effective dialogue to this end.
Through our High Commission in Dhaka we have been clear that the Election Commission
should be allowed to continue its important work, including the registration of voters,
without inteference. We have consistently made the case for international oversight
of the election and the EU has agreed to send an Election Expert Mission. Through
the Department for International Development funding, the UK will also support local
observation of the general election.</p><p>The Foreign Secretary raised his concerns
regarding the next election in Bangladesh with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina when they
met at the UN General Assembly in New York on 24 September. In a call on 1 November
with State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shahriar Alam, I again made the case for
a free, fair and participatory election. Allowing freedom of expression and freedom
of assembly is an integral aspect of this, and through our High Commission in Dhaka
the UK continues to make its concerns heard regarding freedom of expression in Bangladesh.</p>
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