The United States has reiterated its commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s ongoing democratic transition, underscoring its backing for free, fair and inclusive elections, alongside deeper cooperation on trade, migration and regional security issues.
Bangladesh’s National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman held detailed discussions in Washington with Allison Hooker, the US Under-Secretary of State for Political Affairs, and Paul Kapur, Assistant Secretary of State. According to an official statement from Dhaka, the meetings focused on Bangladesh’s forthcoming elections, bilateral economic and trade ties, the Rohingya refugee situation and broader regional developments.
During the talks, Rahman highlighted opportunities for expanding trade, particularly following Bangladesh’s increased imports of American agricultural products. He also sought easing of recent US visa bond requirements, requesting that short-term B1 business visas for Bangladeshi entrepreneurs be exempted to facilitate smoother commercial engagement. Hooker acknowledged the concerns and said the US government would positively examine the proposal, adding that visa bond conditions could be reviewed in the future if tourist overstays decline significantly.
The Rohingya refugee crisis featured prominently in the discussions. Rahman expressed gratitude to Washington for its continued assistance, noting that the US remains the largest donor supporting displaced Rohingyas sheltered in Bangladesh. Hooker thanked Bangladesh for hosting a large refugee population despite significant social and economic pressures, while stressing the importance of wider international burden-sharing and the need to expand livelihood opportunities for refugees as long as they remain in the country.
Rahman also conveyed Bangladesh’s interest in accessing financing from the US International Development Finance Corporation for private sector growth, including potential funding avenues for semiconductor-related development. Hooker assured that these proposals would receive due consideration. On regional security, Bangladesh expressed willingness in principle to contribute to a potential international stabilisation force in Gaza, an idea the US said it was prepared to explore further in cooperation with Dhaka.
In a separate engagement, Rahman attended the swearing-in ceremony of Brent Christensen as the new US Ambassador to Bangladesh at the State Department. The oath was administered by Michael J. Rigas, with senior US officials, diplomats, military representatives and business leaders in attendance. Speaking at the event, senior US officials reaffirmed Washington’s resolve to stand by Bangladesh as it advances on its democratic path.
Ambassador Christensen, in his remarks, said the United States looks forward to working closely with Bangladesh’s next elected government to further strengthen bilateral relations and support a stable, democratic future for the country.
