Hadja Lahbib, the EU’s Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness, and Crisis Management, stated today that the EU supports the people of Bangladesh in their efforts to implement changes under the current interim administration.
“I am with you, and the European Union is with you in supporting the reform ambitions for the interim government. Human rights and democratic values are the cornerstone of EU-Bangladesh relations,” she said.
Speaking at the book’s debut, Bangladesh 36 July 2024, at Bookworm in Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed Park, Gulshan, was the EU commissioner.
The book, which features street paintings and graffiti that portray the repression experienced during the July–August demonstrations and the public’s hopes for a better Bangladesh, was released by the EU Mission in Dhaka.
Lahbib emphasized the importance of their collaboration and reiterated the EU’s commitment to Bangladesh.
“We are strong and reliable humanitarian, development, and trading partners. Bangladesh-EU partnership is a strategic choice rooted in our shared values. You can count on my support, and you can count on the support of the European Union,” she said.
She emphasized the artwork’s importance in expressing popular opposition and the call for reform. The EU Commissioner recalls last year’s brutal suppression of nonviolent protesters in Bangladesh.
“Last year, we all witnessed the violence against peaceful demonstrations during the July-August uprising,” she said.
EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller delivered the welcome speech.
