The UN has said it stands against racially based attacks on minorities in Bangladesh.
Deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq said this when asked at the daily briefing in New York on Thursday.
"What we’ve made clear is we want to make sure that the violence that has been occurring in Bangladesh in recent weeks is tamped down. Certainly, we stand against any racially based attacks or racially based incitement to violence."
This comment followed a question regarding whether the secretary general had any reactions or statements on the attacks targeting Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh.
He added that the UN is ready to support the interim government in the investigation of the recent deaths if it is requested.
"Well, we’ll see what kind of formal request we get from any new Government that is formed. We, of course, stand ready to support the government and people of Bangladesh in any way that they deem is necessary.”
The interim government took the oath of office on Thursday with Prof Muhammad Yunus as the chief adviser.
The deputy spokesperson said secretary general has not spoken to Dr Yunus, but the resident coordinator in Bangladesh did attend the swearing in ceremony, "and certainly she and the country team have been active in encouraging the process of making sure that the transition on the ground is peaceful."
