DHAKA, Feb 28, 2024 (BSS) - Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud has reaffirmed the Bangladesh government's commitment to uphold the democratic principles and human rights in the country.
 
"Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's vision to uphold the principles of equality, inclusivity, democracy, and human rights inspires us to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms for all our citizens," he said.
 
The foreign minister made the remark while addressing the High-Level Segment of the 55th session of Human Rights Council (HRC) through a video message, a foreign ministry's press release said here this evening.
 
Mentioning that the recently held 12th parliamentary election was conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner, he said that along with civil and political rights, the government is working relentlessly to realize economic and social rights of the people by accelerating the pace of development.

Mahmud underscored concerted efforts of all parties to ensure sustainable repatriation of the Rohingya to Rakhine in Myanmar with safety and dignity.
 
Warning that the prolonged stay of Rohingya in Bangladesh would have serious consequences for the regional stability and security, he urged international community for their consistent focus on resolving the Rohingya crisis.

The Bangladesh foreign minister also strongly condemned the indiscriminate killing of civilians in Palestine and called for an immediate end of Israeli aggressions.
 
Denouncing the repeated act of public desecration of Holy Quran and Islamophobia, he emphasized on the peaceful coexistence of peoples of various faiths.

Mahmud called upon the Human Rights Council to deliver on its promises to uphold human rights in line with the principles of universality, impartiality, objectivity, and non-selectivity.

The 55th session of the UN Human Rights Council commenced in Geneva on February 26 and will continue till April 5.