Yunus, Rubio discuss enhancing Indo-Pacific security and stability

Yunus, Rubio reaffirm commitment to stronger ties, Indo-Pacific stability

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed their shared commitment to bolstering economic relations and strengthening security across the Indo-Pacific during a 15-minute phone conversation held around 7:30pm on Sunday, according to a statement from the Chief Adviser’s press wing.

Described as warm, cordial, and constructive, the discussion reflected the growing engagement between Washington and Dhaka.

US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed that both leaders addressed a range of mutual concerns, including Bangladesh’s ongoing trade talks with the US, the domestic reform agenda, the upcoming general election, the democratic transition process, and continued humanitarian support for Rohingya refugees.

Rubio expressed Washington’s support for Dhaka’s reform initiatives and the government’s pledge to hold general elections early next year.

Emphasising the importance of bilateral trade, both leaders expressed hope that tariff negotiations would soon be concluded. Yunus highlighted that the US remains Bangladesh’s top export market and the largest source of remittances.

He also referred to a recent meeting between Bangladesh’s National Security Adviser and US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in Washington, noting it as a step forward in strengthening bilateral cooperation.

Yunus thanked President Donald Trump for responding positively to Bangladesh’s request to temporarily suspend reciprocal tariff measures for 90 days. “We are actively working with your team to finalise a package that aligns with President Trump’s trade vision,” he told Rubio.

Reiterating his government’s commitment to a democratic transition, Yunus said elections would be held in the “early part of next year,” adding that dialogue with political parties is progressing toward crucial reforms. “The Election Commission is working tirelessly to rebuild an electoral framework dismantled by the previous regime. For many of our youth, this will be their first opportunity to vote,” he said.

He also praised the US for being the largest donor to Rohingya humanitarian efforts since 2017, adding, “The prospects for repatriating the Rohingyas to Myanmar are improving, and we are working actively toward a durable solution.”

The two leaders also discussed broader regional dynamics, underlining the need for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and the importance of Bangladesh’s relations with neighbouring countries.

Yunus extended an invitation to Rubio to visit Bangladesh ahead of the elections to witness the country’s democratic transition. “Your visit would be a powerful source of inspiration for our youth,” he said.