In a bold declaration amidst the visit of a senior US diplomat to the city, Bangladesh's Road Transport and Bridges Minister, Obaidul Quader, asserted the government's indifference towards any potential sanctions or visa policies imposed by foreign nations.
Addressing a press conference at the secretariat on Tuesday, Quader, who also serves as the Awami League general secretary, dismissed the significance of the US Assistant State Secretary's visit, questioning the hype surrounding it. "I have nothing to say about the arrival of the US Assistant State Secretary. Why is there so much fuss about the visit of a country’s assistant state secretary?" he remarked.
Taking a swipe at the opposition party, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Quader insinuated their external apathy towards various issues. "I do not know if the BNP cares or not (about the US diplomat's visit). They externally show no care about many issues, but do actually," he added.
In light of the ongoing movement against the use of Indian products, Quader questioned the feasibility of boycotting Indian goods, particularly spices, while affirming that imports of essential commodities like clothes and daily necessities would persist. He accused the BNP of politicizing the matter to divert attention from substantive issues.
Mocking the recurrent deadlines set by the BNP for movements, Quader highlighted the opposition's dwindling influence, citing recent unsuccessful rallies in Dhaka. "Their activists are now frustrated and are not getting involved in any movement," he noted.
Responding to concerns over proposed value-added tax (VAT) on the metro rail, Quader emphasized the government's commitment to addressing the issue, stating that no other country imposes a 15 percent VAT on metro rail services. He reassured that discussions with the Prime Minister had taken place, with assurances of finding a resolution.
About plying of unfit vehicles in the capital city, Quader said unfit vehicles will be dumped. But considering the issue of people’s hassle, those vehicles have minimum fitness to ply will not be dumped now, he mentioned.
“We are considering adding electric buses to public transport,” he said.
ends/Jakir
