Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain has said that Western countries are not exerting any pressure on Bangladesh to ensure an inclusive national election.

Speaking to journalists at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, he discussed a range of current issues and provided detailed updates on the country’s foreign policy and diplomatic engagements.

The adviser told reporters that the government does not feel any pressure from Western nations regarding inclusivity in the upcoming national polls.

Responding to a question about the election process, he said the Election Commission (EC) would make the final decision if India expresses its intention to send election observers.

Regarding the letter sent to Delhi seeking the return of Sheikh Hasina following the verdict in a case over crimes against humanity, Touhid Hossain said the communication was dispatched through a note verbale by Bangladesh’s mission to India’s Ministry of External Affairs. However, no response has been received so far.

“Delhi has not yet replied to the letter requesting Sheikh Hasina’s return following the verdict. We do not know when the answer will come. Dhaka does not even expect such a quick response,” he added.

On the planned purchase of Airbus aircraft from France, the adviser said Bangladesh’s decision — whether to buy Airbus or not — would not negatively affect relations with the European Union. Ties will remain normal and strong, he affirmed.