The Government of Bangladesh has demonstrated political will and firm commitment to combating domestic and transnational terrorist groups, said the United States.
In its annual Congressionally mandated Country Reports on Terrorism 2014, the US Department of State said: “Bangladesh made counterterrorism progress in 2014, with the government demonstrating a commitment to counter both domestic and transnational terrorist groups.
“No major terrorist incidents took place in 2014, and the government’s counterterrorism efforts have made it more difficult for transnational terrorists to operate in or use Bangladeshi territory.”
Referring to the arrest of those who were attempting to recruit Bangladeshis to join the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), the report said: “While Bangladesh is not part of the Global Coalition to Counter ISIL, it is taking steps to address the threat.”
Regarding the legislation, law enforcement, and border security in Bangladesh, the report further said: “Bangladesh’s criminal justice system is in the process of fully implementing the Antiterrorism Act of 2009 (ATA) as amended in 2012 and 2013.
“Although Bangladesh’s ATA does not outlaw recruitment and travel in furtherance of terrorism, the broad language of the ATA provides several mechanisms by which Bangladesh can implement UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2178, which requires nations to address the foreign terrorist fighter threat.”
Noting that the Awami League government is active in the full range of international for a, the report said: “The current government has demonstrated its strong interest in cooperating with India on counterterrorism.
“It has signed memoranda of understanding with a number of countries to share evidence regarding criminal investigations, including investigations related to financial crimes and terrorist financing.”
It added that Bangladesh used strategic communication to counter violent extremism, especially among youth.
“Bangladesh cooperated with the United States to further strengthen control of its borders and land, sea, and air ports of entry.”
