We have already editorialised on the injustice of the US punishing Bangladeshi workers by suspending GSP facilities, and made clear that we oppose such a move.
However, be that as it may, GSP suspension should come as a wake up call to the government to take the issue of workers' rights and safety seriously.
We should not be in a position where our trading partners have the opportunity to rebuke us for our failings and the excuse to enact policies that harm our interests.
If we had our own house in order then we would not be so vulnerable to outside pressure, for good or ill, and this is something any proud, sovereign nation should aspire to.
The mutual mud slinging and finger pointing as to who was responsible has made a bad situation worse.
Trying to blame the leader of the opposition or any other individual for the suspension is clutching at straws for the government and only makes it look weak.
By the same token, the opposition should understand that its record is in no way better than the government’s and that this should not be an issue with which to attack the government for petty political gain.
Both parties need to understand that nobody wins if the country loses.