India wants fair, acceptable and credible election in Bangladesh

Dhaka, Jan 17 (UNI) India wants a fair, acceptable and credible election in Bangladesh, says the Indian envoy.

''We hope that a fair, credible and acceptable election would be held in Bangladesh with necessary updating of the voter's list,'' said the new Indian High Commissioner Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty.

Talking to mediapersons after a meeting with Awami League president Sheikh Hasina at her Sudha Sadan residence tonight, he said the current political situation in Bangladesh was its internal matter and we are observing the situation.

During the one-and-a-half-hour-long meeting, bilateral issues like economic, trade and investment matters and land ports, CHT peace agreement and the Ganges water treaty were discussed.

The Indian envoy hoped that the bilateral relationship would further be strengthened as the Indian government wants improved relations with Bangladesh.

Awami League presidium member Kazi Zafarullah hoped that a free, fair and credible election would be held immediately after recasting the Election Commission. ''We want free and fair elections with the participation of all political parties,'' he said.

Mr Zafarullah hoped that the relationship between the two neighbouring countries would be strengthened and existing disputes over different issues resolved through discussion.

UNI