DHAKA, March 1 (Xinhua) -- The Bangladeshi government has voiced deep concern at the latest escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, expressing regret over the failure of diplomatic initiatives to halt the further deterioration of the situation.
Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday night said Dhaka re-emphasized the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of every country in the region.
"Bangladesh reaffirms its consistent position in favor of peace, stability, and security in the Middle East and calls upon the international community to intensify efforts towards restoring calm and facilitating dialogue," said the ministry in a statement following an emergency meeting on Saturday night.
Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, among others, met for the emergency meeting to review the evolving situation in the Middle East.
Stressing that only dialogue, mutual respect, and international law can resolve disputes, Bangladesh called on all sides to exercise utmost restraint, halt any escalation, and pursue urgent diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions.
Bangladesh has suspended all flights to the Middle East until further notice, the statement said. ■
