US propose Counter Terrorism Unit in Bangladesh

UPI Terrorism Watch
By JOHN C.K. DALYUPI
International Correspondent

WASHINGTON, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- Bangladeshi security officials speaking on condition of anonymity said that the Bush administration wants to establish a counter-terrorism unit in Bangladesh, providing an initial $100 million grant for the outfit.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State for Political Affairs Nicolas Burns will discuss Washington's proposals for the unit during a visit to Dhaka later this month.

The counter-terrorism unit would be developed under the direct U.S. supervision News Today reported. The U.S. would also provide training and equipment to Bangladesh's 707th Special Mission Battalion counter-terrorism unit.

According to the source, the new unit could "cherry pick" specialists from all sections of the country's security agencies as well as the army.

In principle, President Iajuddin Ahmed's government has agreed to establish the counter-terrorism unit but the final decision will be taken following Burns' visit.

Burns is also to discuss the country's latest measures in combating Islamic militants. Burns is scheduled to meet with both government officials and opposition party members.

Link: http://www.upi.com/SecurityTerrorism/view.php?StoryID=20060111-031048-6796r