Remarks

Speech at Bangladesh Shongbad Shongsta

BSS, Dhaka

May 16, 2005

As-salaamu alaikum, namaskar and good afternoon.

Prothom, ami BSS-kay donnobad ditay chai. Ami shob shomoy shongbadik shongstai ashte pachundo kori. Ehkon ami ingrejitay bolbo.

Bangladesh and the United States share many core values. 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.

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.

Thank you for welcoming me into your office. I have enjoyed (look forward to) the tour of your facilities.

Donnobad.

 

Donnobad.

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)