The Vatican has expressed hope for free, fair, just and transparent elections in Bangladesh, while making it clear that it does not wish for any particular outcome.
"As Bangladesh prepares for elections, the Holy See stands alongside of you to wish a process that is free, fair, just, and transparent," Vatican Ambassador to Bangladesh Archbishop Kevin S. Randell said on Thursday evening.
He was addressing a ceremony marking Pope Day at the Vatican Embassy in Dhaka, which also coincided with the visit of Cardinal George Jacob Koovkad, Prefect of the Dicastery for Inter-religious Dialogue.
The Cardinal, who began his visit on September 6, has led a series of dialogues, including visits to the National Mosque, meetings with Islamic scholars, and stops at a Hindu temple and a pagoda in Dhaka.
Archbishop Randell underlined that the Holy See does not support any political party, form of government or individual, nor does it seek a particular election result.
"The half a million Christians, Catholics and Protestants, who are citizens of Bangladesh, will vote their consciences, like all other citizens," he said.
On inter-religious dialogue, he noted that such engagement brings hope and aids all in striving for peace, solidarity, healing and justice in a world "filled with extremism, hatred and war."
He added: "We must have the courage to build bridges, to be the Good Samaritan, to reach out to others in need. We do not need societies filled with fear and hate. No religious ought to promote those values, nor should religion be used to justify violence."
The Vatican envoy also recalled Pope Francis' visit to Myanmar and Bangladesh in 2017 following the Rohingya exodus, when he prayed for peace and expressed deep concern for the displaced community.
"These displaced persons merit a home and dignity," he said, praising the interim government for hosting the victims of conflict. "But, they need our help."
He added that Pope Leo XIV has equally expressed grave concern and prays for stronger international support for the Rohingya.
Addressing the event as chief guest, Education Adviser Professor C. R. Abrar said Bangladesh's relationship with the Holy See is rooted in shared values of peace, compassion and mutual respect.
"This enduring bond reflects our common commitment to promoting religious harmony, interfaith discourse and human dignity," he said.
"Let us reaffirm our collective commitment to building bridges of peace, upholding justice and ensuring that no one is left behind regardless of faith, ethnicity or background. May we continue to work hand in hand to ensure that our common humanity rises above all religious, cultural and social divides," the adviser added.
