Remarks

Speech at United News of Bangladesh

Dhaka, Bangladesh

May 9, 2005

As-salaamu alaikum, namaskar and good afternoon.

Prothom, ami UNB-kay donnobad ditay chai. Ami shob shomoy shongbadik shongstai ashte pachundo kori. Ajkay apnader district correspondent-derkay Dhakai shagotom boli. Ehkon ami ingrejitay bolbo.

Bangladesh and the United States share many core values. Last week, we celebrated World Press Freedom Day, acknowledging a fundamental democratic value, the importance of a vibrant, free press. Thomas Jefferson once wrote “were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.”

A free press informs the public, holds leaders accountable, and provides a forum for debate of local and national issues. In Bangladesh, the press plays a crucial national role by keeping the public abreast of issues they need to know about. You always keep one finger on the pulse of the government and society.

Journalists should not be swayed by public opinion or governmental pressure, only by the truth. A democracy allows the press to collect and report news without fear or favor from the government.

Unfortunately, Bangladeshi journalists often must work in a perilous environment. Far too frequently, journalists are harassed, assaulted and even killed in return for their efforts.

The United States commends Bangladeshi journalists on their commitment to reporting the facts despite unreasonable obstacles. I encourage you all to resist the temptation to practice self-censorship. Open access to honest, frank media is one of the major factors keeping Bangladeshi democracy vibrant.

Today we are here to see the wonderful renovations that this building has undergone. New facilities and new technologies can renew spirits; it can renew commitment and dedication. I hope we all come away from this event with a bit of renewal.

Thank you.

Note:  A Bangla translation of this article is also available from the American Center.  If you are interested in the translation, please call the American Center Press Section (Tel: 8813440-4, Fax: 9881677; e-mail: DhakaPA@state.gov; Website: dhaka.usembassy.gov (New)