No specific information on President’s phone call with Sheikh Hasina: State Minister for Foreign Affairs

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid Islam has said the government does not have any specific information that President Md. Sahabuddin held a secret meeting or phone conversation with ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during his foreign trip. However, any such information, if received, will be investigated.

She made the remarks while briefing journalists at her office on various contemporary issues on Thursday.

Shama Obaid said, “We have not received any specific information that the President met with the ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during his foreign visit. If such information is found, it will definitely be investigated.”

She stated that an invitation has come from the Indian government for Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s visit. The government also expects that the visit of the US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia will further strengthen commercial ties between Bangladesh and the United States.

The State Minister added that a meeting has been held with the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare regarding passport issuance to reduce visa-related complications.

She refrained from commenting on the ongoing political discussions regarding President Md. Sahabuddin’s resignation.

However, she noted that there is no official confirmation regarding claims in various media outlets about a phone call or meeting between the President and Sheikh Hasina during the latter’s London visit.