National Desk, 28th December: In anticipation of the scheduled general elections on January 7, 2024, Bangladesh’s political arena buzzed with the release of the ruling Awami League’s election manifesto. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, steering the government, unveiled a comprehensive plan that prioritizes maintaining a strong relationship with neighboring India.
The manifesto addresses longstanding issues, including land boundary demarcation and enclave exchanges with India, fostering multilateral cooperation and amicable relations. Under Hasina’s leadership, the Awami League commits to sustaining bilateral trade and security ties with India, exploring new collaborations in energy and joint river water management with India, Bhutan, and Nepal.
Sheikh Hasina’s administration has been pivotal in shaping Bangladesh’s foreign policy, focusing on regional connectivity, transit, energy partnerships, and equitable water sharing. The manifesto highlights the nation’s firm stance against allowing militants and separatist groups, proposing the formation of a South Asia Task Force to combat terrorism and militancy across the region.
Beyond international relations, the manifesto outlines an ambitious vision to transform Bangladesh into a ‘Smart Bangladesh’ by 2041, targeting key development areas such as modernizing healthcare and prioritizing economic growth and job creation.
As the country approaches the polls, the opposition, notably the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) alliance, calls for civil disobedience and protests, advocating for a non-party interim government. Despite this, Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League stand firm on their platform of development, peace, and prosperity, urging citizens to vote for continuity and stability.
The Supreme Court’s approval for the Election Commission to proceed sets the stage for a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s democratic journey. As Sheikh Hasina’s tenure reflects significant milestones, including the water-sharing treaty with India, the nation awaits the electoral outcome, contemplating another term under her leadership and the vision of a collaborative and prosperous future with neighboring India.
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