The US reiterates its backing for Bangladesh’s reform initiatives

US Reaffirms Strong Support for Bangladesh’s Reform Drive

The United States has reaffirmed its strong support for the reform agenda being pursued by Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus. The message of solidarity came during the U.S. Independence Day celebration held in Dhaka on Tuesday evening.

Speaking at the event, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Tracey Ann Jacobson paid tribute to the student-led uprising of July-August last year, calling it “the foundation for the historic work we are witnessing now to rebuild the state and restore democracy,” according to a BSS report.

“We honour the sacrifices of those who gave their lives last year, and we fully support the Chief Adviser’s efforts to build consensus around reform and to lay the groundwork for free and fair elections early next year,” Jacobson said.

She added that this commitment had been reaffirmed during a recent phone call between the U.S. Secretary of State and the Chief Adviser.

Finance, and Science and Technology Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed attended the event as the guest of honour. Other dignitaries included the Chief Justice, members of the interim cabinet, diplomats, senior officials, and distinguished guests.

Jacobson highlighted over 50 years of Bangladesh-U.S. partnership, emphasizing strong people-to-people ties and expanding cooperation in commerce, defence, and development.

“Our partnership is strong, built on shared values and mutual interests,” she said.

She noted that the U.S. has been the largest donor to the Rohingya crisis response since 2017, contributing more than $2.5 billion—including $160 million this year alone.

As USAID begins transitioning its remaining development programs to the U.S. State Department, Jacobson acknowledged its historic role, stating that over $8 billion in USAID investments have helped position Bangladesh for graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status.

On the economic front, Jacobson cited major American investors such as Chevron—the country’s largest foreign investor—and Excelerate Energy, which together provide over 70% of Bangladesh’s electricity supply. U.S. tech giants including Oracle, Microsoft, Meta, and Google were also lauded for advancing Bangladesh’s digital transformation.

She confirmed ongoing efforts to resolve trade issues between the two countries, including dialogue on tariffs, trade barriers, and labour standards in line with global norms.

Jacobson also highlighted the growing military partnership, citing joint exercises such as Tiger Lightning and Pacific Angel, and noting that around 120 Bangladeshi military officers receive training annually at elite U.S. institutions, including West Point and the U.S. Naval Academy.

This year’s celebration, themed as an American-style “State Fair,” showcased cultural connections and agricultural heritage, with attendees wearing denim to symbolise American cotton and Bangladesh’s globally renowned garment industry.