'Political conflicts obstacle to achieving MDG'

She explained that hartals and conflicts between the government and the opposition parties impede the development efforts aimed at the poor and vulnerable groups.

Erna is now in Dhaka to see the country's progress in reaching the MDG targets by 2015.

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"Bangladesh as a country can generate better understanding of international community and generate more support for long-term development plans," she said.

In an interview with the UNB, the ambassador said in a democracy, the party in power should be allowed to implement its development plans for the poorest and vulnerable to improve their livelihood.

"I think the essence of the opposition is to constantly correct whoever is in power and that is democracy. But if the opposition becomes an obstacle to the development for the people, then it will be a loss for all, especially for the ordinary people," Erna said.

Responding to the opposition's complaints against denial of democratic rights, killings and repression, the UN ambassador said, "It takes two to cause this situation… It is counterproductive."

"I'm not blaming the opposition, and not blaming the government in power either. I am stating that constant political turmoil is counterproductive for development efforts," she said.

The envoy said any country needs a stable political environment, normal internal trade, industrial development and congenial atmosphere for its people to improve their livelihood.

She, however, said that Bangladesh is on the track in reaching the MDG targets and praised the country's quick success in the field of primary education, child health and to some extent in women empowerment and poverty alleviation.