Dhaka, Sept. 28 -- State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir has dismissed the notion that Bangladesh is buying additional Boeing aircraft to "appease" the United States, saying the purchases are driven by the country's own needs.

"We are buying Boeing aircraft now. Bangladesh needs to expand its fleet significantly. There is no secret agenda behind this. The question does not even arise," he said at a press briefing at the foreign ministry on Monday.

"The agreement was reached based on necessity, and the process was transparent. We have shared the details with you. We may make further purchases if the need arises. Therefore, we will proceed according to our requirements."

He also spoke about Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's part...