AL ban is Bangladesh’s internal issue: US

The United States reiterated that decisions regarding domestic political bans, including restrictions on the Awami League, remain an internal matter for Bangladesh, according to a report by the TIMES of Bangladesh.

A senior US State Department official made the statement during a briefing titled "US Policy in Support of a Stable, Prosperous and Sovereign South Asia" at the New York Foreign Press Center on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

Responding to a question on whether Washington supported lifting the ban on Awami League's political activities, the official stated the US would not dictate Bangladesh's sovereign internal affairs.

"I do not want to speak about the internal politics of Bangladesh, but I would like to say that our relations with Bangladesh, with the BNP, are in a very good place," the official said, adding that Washington wants to continue working with the elected government.

Regarding ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina's stay in India following her trial in absentia, the official noted that Washington has not taken an official stance. The official expressed hope that Dhaka and New Delhi would resolve the matter through bilateral discussions.

Addressing concerns over foreign pressure from major powers, the official emphasized respect for national sovereignty. Washington does not force countries to choose sides but seeks to present a viable alternative while helping Bangladesh keep its system secure.

On a potential meeting between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the official declined to comment on the president's schedule. However, the official highlighted recent high-level interactions, noting that President Trump briefly met Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman during the week, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met him during an ASEAN engagement.

-SA