The US Department of State Spokesperson Matthew Miller has said they value their relationship with both Bangladesh and India and they will continue to work together on the shared interests.
"We value our relationship with both Bangladesh and India. We will continue to work with both countries' governments to pursue our shared interests, including ensuring a free, open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region," he said.
He made the remarks when a questioner wanted to know about the so-called "India Out" campaign in the region at a media briefing on Monday in Washington.
"So we are aware of the reports of this campaign. I'm obviously not going to comment on any individual consumers' decisions, whether it's in Bangladesh or anywhere around the world," Miller said.
Talking to reporters recently after a US delegation's Bangladesh visit, Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud said there is willingness from both sides - USA and Bangladesh - to work together and they want to create a new chapter in their relations.
"We also want to begin a new chapter of relations with them," he said, adding that the people will benefit through strengthening the relations.
Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for South Asia, US National Security Council (NSC) Eileen Laubacher, USAID Assistant Administrator, Bureau for Asia Michael Schiffer and, US Department of State Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asia Afreen Akhter had a three-day visit to Bangladesh recently.
Responding to a question on Dr Muhammad Yunus, Miller said, "You have heard me speak before about the US government's concerns surrounding the cases against Muhammad Yunus, including that they could represent a potential misuse of Bangladesh's laws to harass and intimidate the doctor."
The US State Department Spokesperson said Ambassador Peter Haas simply reiterated those comments, acting in his capacity as the US government's highest ranking representative in Bangladesh.
