No cooperation from govt in holding dialogue: Hasina

The allegation came when newly appointed Swedish Ambassador F Dritt Hagstron met Sheikh Hasina, also leader of the opposition in parliament, at her Sudha Sadan residence in the city yesterday.

Briefing reporters after the meeting, AL presidium member Kazi Zafrullah said the opposition leader also informed the Swedish envoy of her party's interest and placing of proposal in parliament on dialogue and even sending names of five representatives to BNP secretary general for the dialogue.

The ambassador told the newsmen that during the one-hour meeting, they discussed matters relating to bilateral interest, current political situation in Bangladesh, price hike of essentials, law and order, and reduction of poverty.

"Sweden as well as European Union want a free, fair and transparent general election in Bangladesh. The election should be fair and impartial from the beginning to the end," said Ambassador Hagstron.

AL Forest and Environment Affairs secretary Hasan Mahmud and former ambassador Ziauddin were present at the meeting.