Dhaka: Against the backdrop of the Gulshan tragedy,Chair of the international Board of Directors of Transparency International (TI) Jose Ugaz has expressed the deepest condolences for the loss of innocent lives as a result of the worst ever terrorist attack in Bangladesh on July 1.

Ugaz expressed solidarity with the people of Bangladesh at this challenging time.

In a telephone call on Tuesday evening he and Iftekharuzzaman, the Executive Director of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), expressed the conviction that terrorism and extremism were absolutely contradictory to the values, spirit and vision of Bangladesh as a successful and proud nation that emerged independent upholding the principles of justice, equality and peaceful coexistence of religious, cultural, ethnic and various other forms of diversity and fundamental freedoms.  

He expressed the hope and confidence that the people of Bangladesh have the courage and capacity to overcome the challenges of terror and extremism.

The TI chair specially condoled the death of Ishrat Akhond, a volunteer member of TIB, and prayed for the eternal peace of the departed souls of victims of the tragedy.

He conveyed solidarity and support to everyone involved with TIB, including its board, staff and volunteers.

The TI chair called upon the people of Bangladesh in general and everyone involved with TIB in particular keeping the moral high which is extremely important in confronting the challenges facing the country.