DEMONSTRATION NOTICE

April 17, 2008

The past two weeks have been marked by violent demonstrations at the National Mosque. Police have informed the U.S. Embassy that they are expecting more such demonstrations this Friday in connection with a controversial Women’s Development Policy.

We remind all U.S. citizens that travel to the vicinity of the National Mosque is not advisable on Fridays from 1200 to 1800 hours. Embassy personnel are prohibited from traveling to this area on Friday afternoons as a standing policy.

In addition, we remind you to be vigilant around all mosques, including those within the diplomatic enclave, as small demonstrations may spontaneously start following Friday prayers.

If demonstrations escalate, please monitor the local media for updates. English language local news is available on the following channels at the following times:

ATN – 1800
Bangla Vision – 2105
BTV – 2200
BTV – 2330 (also broadcasts by all local satellite stations: ATN, Channel I, NTV, RTV, Bangla Vision, and Boishaki)

U.S. Embassy
Dhaka, Bangladesh