Dr Mijanur Rahman speaks to DOT :
The relation of most of the foreign countries with Bangladesh is mainly trade-related now. If we can charge less, Europeans or Americans will definitely import products from us. Trade does not bank on whether democracy is in place in Bangladesh. If we can export quality products at lower prices, any country of the world will approach for that that.
In case of international relation, our internal politics and electoral system are not taken into account. Such issues do not rely on international relation.
But if the next election is held inclusively, we will be able to introduce proudly to the world that we are a developed democracy and cultural country. This will be a “plus point” for us.
If BNP again boycotts the election or sabotages during polls, I don’t think it will not help the polls from being held fairly or cause a massive tension in the country.
Many voiced that the next election is a do or die one, I don’t see the commitment being kept now. This is because the people will reject the anti-Liberation War forces or alliance, which has no possibility to win.
Dr Mijanur Rahman is the Vice-Chancellor of Jagannath University.Based on an interview by Fahim Bijoy, translated by Sayeed Muhammad
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