Go to grassroots people, don’t knock foreigners’ doors: Momen to opposition leaders

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on Saturday advised the opposition leaders to reach out to the people at the grassroots level instead of seeking favour from the foreigners, noting that the foreigners only think of their own interest.

He mentioned that people in a number of countries including Afghanistan suffered due to foreigners’ role there and urged the people of the country not to listen to what the foreigners say.

“Don’t listen to foreigners, listen to your leaders. After all, this is our own country owned by its citizens. We don’t want to harm our country,” Momen told reporters.

Recalling some foreigners’ role in the past, the Foreign Minister said nothing did work and the people of the country are very conscious who exercise their voting rights judiciously.

“I have much confidence in the people of this country,” he said, urging the opposition leaders not to knock the foreigners’ doors.

Momen said if the opposition parties reach out to the people it will be good for them and the country.

Responding to a question, Momen said diplomats stationed in Dhaka can convey to the government of Bangladesh if they have anything to say but this should be done by maintaining the code of conduct. “They have the scope to convey it through various levels.”

Momen cited examples of how the US expelled Russian diplomats and said powerful countries can do that. “But when the time comes, we will take action, too.”   

Earlier, he attended the “International Charity Bazaar” at the Foreign Service Academy hosted by the Foreign Office Spouses’ Association.