DHAKA, July 8, 2023 (BSS) - Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen today said some vested quarters have been involved in creating obstacles to the country's "election process". 

"We have indication that some are trying to hinder the election process," he said, joining "DCAB Talk" organized by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Bangladesh (DCAB) at Foreign Service Academy here. 

He urged the journalists to be vigilant over such efforts, saying that media has the responsibility to make the country's democratic process sustainable.
 
"We need to make the country's peace and stability sustainable," he said, adding that everyone would be affected if the democratic process, peace and stability are hampered in the country. 

Momen also expressed his displeasure over seeking solutions of Bangladesh's internal issues from foreigners, especially from the diplomats stationed in Dhaka.

"I believe you (media) will not be playing a supportive role to that end," he said, adding that the current government is not feeling any pressure amid election discussions by the foreigners. 

Regarding dialogue among the political parties, the foreign minister said he is not aware whether such kind of dialogue among political parties over election brought any results in the past. 

Terming dialogue among political parties as "useless discussion", he said, neither such dialogues are held nor heads of government resign in countries like the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK) other European countries. 
 
Momen said that the next election would be held as per the constitution and the Awami League government will not talk to "any terrorists". 

"We have a good track record of holding good elections. We are doing our best," he added.

However, the foreign minister said that foreigners are welcome to come here and observe the elections. "We remain transparent. We have nothing to hide," he added. 

He said the government would like to make the next general polls participatory and a "model election" in the world but for that it requires sincere commitment from all parties. 

"We don't have any problem if any "terrorist party" does not join the election," he said. 

The foreign minister highlighted the achievements of the government and its efforts to boost export through diversification. 

Momen said it is a great achievement of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina that she completely changed the country's image over the past decade as "Bangladesh is not anymore a country of terrorists and terrorism activities." 

The foreign minister said Bangladesh does not want to tilt towards any specific country but maintains a balanced relation with all.

DCAB President Rezaul Karim Lotus and its General Secretary Emrul Kayesh spoke at the event.