EU to Deploy High-Level Mission to Observe Bangladesh’s Feb 12 Polls

The European Union (EU) has decided to deploy a high-level and large-scale observer mission for the upcoming National Election and Referendum scheduled for February 12.

Paula Pampaloni, Acting Managing Director for Asia-Pacific at the European External Action Service (EEAS), conveyed this during a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna on Wednesday (January 7).

Highlighting that the EU accords "top priority" to its ties with Bangladesh, Pampaloni informed that the head of the EU Election Observation Mission is expected to arrive in Dhaka by the end of this week for consultations with political stakeholders and authorities.

During the discussion, Professor Yunus remarked that the upcoming polls are a milestone for the country’s democratic transition. "I believe political parties will campaign for a 'Yes' vote in the referendum as they have already endorsed the July Charter," he said, adding that after 16 years of autocratic rule, the people are eager to vote in a free and festive atmosphere.

Pampaloni lauded the "extraordinary" reforms undertaken by the interim government over the past 17 months, noting that the EU has closely monitored and appreciated the efforts to maintain stability. Both sides expressed optimism that the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) would further solidify the Bangladesh-EU relationship.