We expect Washington to change its position over sanctions: Momen

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on Tuesday said Dhaka expects that the United States (US) will change its position over the sanctions imposed on some of the present and former officials of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB).

"We expect they'll change their position ... We'll discuss the issue with them... our efforts will continue (regarding this)," he said addressing a media briefing as he was approached to make a comment on the recent US sanctions.

The foreign minister said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina assigned him, Home Minister and Law Affairs Minister to look into the matter.

He was virtually connected from Turkey to brief the media on the upcoming state visit of Indian President Ram Nath Kovind to Bangladesh from December 15-17.

Dr Momen said the US decision took the decision to slap the sanction on some officials as some NGOs or human rights organisations instigated them, and it was unfortunate that the US took the step without consulting with the Bangladesh government.

He said RAB plays a vital role in uprooting terrorism as well as drug trafficking from Bangladesh while the US global policy is to prevent terrorism. "It's not like that all the decisions of the US are correct," he added.

The foreign minister said he does believe that the sanction will not affect Dhaka-Washington bilateral ties as it has been going "very sweet" with continuous discussion on fronts.

MSH/