Bangladesh minister dismisses rumors of lifting ban on Awami League

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon dismissed speculation that Bangladesh may lift the ban on Awami League political activities, saying the reports were rumors.

“No such rumor has reached the government’s ears so far. Since it has not reached our ears, we do not want to take cognizance of this matter yet,” Swapon said.

He also said Bangladesh was working to resolve diplomatic complications with India after Prime Minister Tarique Rahman met Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi in Dhaka. Swapon said Trivedi said no problem between the countries was beyond resolution.

India later confirmed that Rahman had been invited for a bilateral visit and to attend the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, or BRICS, Outreach Session in Delhi. Bangladesh has not yet decided whether Rahman will travel to India.