FROM PAGE 4

Asked about foreign diplomats commenting on Bangladesh’s election, the adviser said, “Many times I have felt that a large part of our society actually wants them to speak. So I cannot dismiss them outright. This has become part of our culture.”

Touhid also said negotiations with the US regarding purchasing Boeing aircraft as well as reducing tariffs on Bangladeshi products are ongoing.

“I hope it will be finalised soon because the condition of our aircraft fleet is very poor and new aircraft are urgently needed,” he said, adding that Boeing will assist Biman in leasing four aircraft.

UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller said reports produced by journalists in Bangladesh are closely followed by diplomats, international observers, development partners, investors and global media outlets.

“As a result, election narratives can influence international confidence, diplomatic engagement, perceptions of a country’s image and democratic maturity,” he said.