Warden Message

January 31, 2008

U.S. Embassy Dhaka has learned of the upcoming release of a short film funded by a Dutch parliamentarian that could be viewed as offensive by some Bangladeshis. The release of the film may spark anti-Western demonstrations. Historically, such demonstrations have occurred at mosques immediately following Friday prayers.

U.S. Embassy Dhaka recommends that American citizens avoid the National Mosque on Fridays from 1200 to 1800. Additionally, we remind all American citizens to be vigilant around all mosques in Bangladesh as small demonstrations may spontaneously start following Friday prayers.

We remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. American citizens are, therefore, urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstration. American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times. Information regarding demonstration in Bangladesh can be found on the U.S. Embassy Dhaka website http://dhaka.usembassy.gov.

Americans living or traveling in Bangladesh are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy Dhaka through the State Department’s travel registration website, http://travelregistration.state.gov so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Bangladesh. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka can be reached at (880-2) 885-5500 during regular hours and for after-hours emergencies. Our website address is http://dhaka.usembassy.gov . For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov , where the current Worldwide Caution, Bangladesh Country Specific Information and other Travel Alerts and Travel Warnings can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. and Canada; or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 am to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

U.S. Embassy
Dhaka, Bangladesh