US President Donald Trump has extended congratulations to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, expressing optimism that the PM will play a pivotal role in sustaining the significant progress achieved in the US-Bangladesh trade partnership. Trump also emphasized the importance of finalizing essential defense agreements to grant Bangladesh’s military access to cutting-edge American equipment.
Following the signing of a reciprocal trade agreement on February 9, the US has been actively pursuing the completion of two key defense agreements with Bangladesh – the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) and the Acquisition Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) – aimed at bolstering defense ties.
In a letter dated February 18, President Trump conveyed his felicitations to Tarique on his historic election victory and wished him a successful tenure as Bangladesh’s premier. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bangladesh shared the contents of the letter on X date.
Trump underscored the foundation of the partnership between the two nations on mutual respect and a shared interest in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region conducive to the prosperity of strong and independent nations. He expressed confidence that Tarique, in his new role, would help sustain the positive trajectory of the US-Bangladesh trade relationship through the effective implementation of the Reciprocal Trade Agreement, benefiting both countries’ farmers and workers.
President Trump expressed eagerness to collaborate with Tarique to elevate the bilateral ties to new heights and praised the capabilities of his Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent Christensen, in furthering this agenda. He highlighted the potential for enhancing prosperity and security in both nations through joint efforts.
Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also reached out to Tarique to convey congratulations on his electoral success and assumption of the premiership. Starmer emphasized the need for cooperation in addressing issues such as illegal migration, climate change mitigation, and strengthening defense and security cooperation.
Acknowledging the close and enduring ties between the UK and Bangladesh, Starmer expressed confidence in the growth of collaboration under Tarique’s leadership, building upon shared values and a rich historical relationship. The British PM voiced readiness to work closely with Tarique to reinforce the bilateral partnership and advance common priorities, including expanding trade and investment relations.
Starmer also affirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh in hosting Rohingya refugees and expressed optimism for the future of the partnership between the two countries.
In a separate development, Switzerland President Guy Parmelin extended his best wishes to Tarique, foreseeing a successful tenure in office. Parmelin highlighted the significance of Tarique’s leadership in advancing Bangladesh’s progress and development. He expressed eagerness to further enhance the longstanding and positive relations between Switzerland and Bangladesh, fostering cooperation across various mutual interests.