The United States has expressed its willingness to bolster security cooperation with Bangladesh and assist the South Asian country in the modernisation and institutional development of its armed forces.
The US showed interest during the eighth round of US-Bangladesh Security Dialogue held at the Department of State in Washington, DC on Wednesday, said a press release from the embassy of Bangladesh in the US.
Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen led the Bangladesh delegation while Undersecretary for Arms Control and International Security Bonnie Denise Jenkins led the US delegation at the day-long dialogue.
Foreign Secretary Masud said Bangladesh deeply values its partnership with the US while the US delegation appreciated strong ties with Bangladesh, which is well reflected in the regular dialogues between two sides.
The meeting discussed issues like UN peacekeeping, Bangladesh-US Security Cooperation, including cooperation in military training, maritime security, proposed defence agreements, defence purchase and capacity development etc, regional issues like Rohingya, Indo-Pacific, and counterterrorism and civilian security cooperation.
The two sides had constructive discussions on defence agreements like GSOMIA (General Security of Military Information Agreement) and ACSA (Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement). The US side praised Bangladesh’s successes and leadership in UN peacekeeping operations.
On the Rohingya issue, Bangladesh appreciated the determination by the US of the genocide against Rohingyas, and urged the US side to take follow up measures.
The US highly praised Bangladesh’s role and said the country is committed to continue all possible support, read the release.
During the discussion, Bangladesh expressed support for inclusive socio-economic development in the Indo-Pacific region.
Expressing deep concern regarding the sanctions on the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and individuals, the Bangladesh delegation urged the US side to reconsider the decision. The two sides, however, agreed to continue discussion on the issue.
At the dialogue, both sides agreed to continue robust cooperation in counterterrorism and transnational crimes.
The US assured its continued support in building law enforcement and prosecutorial capacity as well as in countering violent extremism.
The two sides also discussed cooperation in aviation safety, with the view to early resumption of Dhaka-New York direct flight.
Bangladesh appreciated the robust support received from the US in terms of Covid-19 vaccines.
Both countries agreed to maintain regular contact and to continue the discussion on various issues.
The next security dialogue will be held next year in Dhaka.
