DHAKA : US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen has expressed optimism over advancing bilateral relations, saying Washington is working to elevate ties with Dhaka under a clear vision set by President Donald Trump.
In a video message, released on today marking 100 days since his arrival, the ambassador said, “After 100 days, I am even more optimistic about the future of US-Bangladesh relations.
“I can’t wait to see what we all accomplish next,” he said.
The envoy noted that Bangladesh and the United States have signed a ‘historic trade agreement’ aimed at balancing the trade deficit and enhancing mutual prosperity.
“I have tirelessly advocated for U.S. businesses across Bangladesh to build those trade ties,” he said.
Christensen said the two countries are cooperating to combat illegal migration and strengthen a ‘closer security partnership’ for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
“We are combating diseases like tuberculosis and measles through a new health partnership with Bangladesh,” he said.
The envoy said the United States remains the largest donor supporting Bangladesh’s hosting of the Rohingya people and will continue to push for a political solution to the crisis.
Reflecting on his time in Bangladesh, he said he received a warm welcome from the people and enjoyed engaging with the country’s culture, including Pahela Baishakh festivities, cricket, and local cuisine.
“We could not have asked for anything more. I came at an important time, just before Bangladesh’s historic February election,” he said.
He noted that the United States was the first country to recognise the election results and congratulate the new government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
The ambassador said he has worked for over two decades on US policy toward Bangladesh and the broader region, reaffirming his commitment to advancing American interests and strengthening bilateral ties.
Christensen presented his credentials to President Mohammed Shahabuddin on January 15 at Bangabhaban and expressed his eagerness to deepen cooperation.
He added that over the past five decades, Bangladesh and the United States have worked together to promote regional stability, economic growth, and sovereignty.
