Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly has welcomed the interim government of Bangladesh, led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, and called for an impartial investigation into all deaths and violence. In a statement released on Friday, she urged a thorough and unbiased investigation into the violence and deaths related to the quota reform movement in Bangladesh.
In her statement, Foreign Minister Joly said, “Canada supports peaceful efforts to resolve the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh. We welcome the interim government led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus. This is a first step towards free and fair elections, democratic governance, and restoring peace.”
Joly added, “During this time of change, Canada wants to work with the interim government to support a process that includes broader political participation across all sectors of society, including religious minorities, youth, women, and other minority communities.”
Reiterating the call for all parties to remain calm, the Canadian Foreign Minister also said, “We urge all parties to work together to establish democratic and inclusive governance, respect for human rights, and the rule of law.” She called on the interim government to ensure access to the internet and other communication channels to support freedom of expression and accountability, and reiterated the call for a comprehensive and impartial investigation into all incidents of death and violence.
The interim government, with Dr. Muhammad Yunus as Chief Advisor, was formed on Thursday night. The government consists of 17 members including the Chief Advisor.
In welcoming the new government led by Dr. Yunus, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, stating, “The United States supports Dr. Yunus’s call for everyone to remain peaceful and restrained. We are committed to working together in efforts to build a democratic and prosperous future for the people of Bangladesh.”
Previously, on Friday, the UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy also welcomed the interim government of Bangladesh in a statement on the UK government’s website.
