DHAKA, Nov 16, 2020 (BSS) – Expressing concern over communal attacks as well as persecution on ethnic minority in some countries, Foreign Minister Dr A K Abdul Momen today stressed on promoting inter-religious dialogues to advance peace and harmony in the society.
“The battle against the pandemic of intolerance needs a concerted ‘whole of society’ approach and a rock-solid partnership involving all stakeholders” he said at the high-level virtual Ministerial Meeting to Advance Freedom of Religion or Belief organised by Poland.
In this context, he referred to the mass atrocities and persecutions of Rohingyas by the Myanmar authorities and their temporary refuge in Bangladesh.
Dr Momen also expressed deep concern over the recent rise of hate speech, xenophobic attitude and human rights violation targeting religious minorities in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.
The Foreign Minister emphasized on inculcating a mindset of tolerance and respect for each other irrespective of religion, ethnicity, colour and background to achieve peace and harmony.
He highlighted that even in this current global context, Bangladesh has steadfastly maintained a peaceful co-existence of different groups and ensured the safety and security of all citizens irrespective of their religious background.
Underscoring the secular identity of Bangladesh as laid down by Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Dr Momen mentioned about the “zero tolerance” approach of Bangladesh government towards any form of violence and discrimination against the religious minorities under any pretext.
The meeting was attended by high-level representatives from more than 50 states including the USA, Australia, Brazil, Denmark, Finland, Kuwait, The Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Uzbekistan, Slovakia, Morocco, Latvia, Kazakhstan and host Poland.