Trade, security coop in focus at US-Bangladesh dialogue

Dhaka, Sept 21  The first US-Bangladesh Partnership Dialogue has concluded with focus on greater engagement and cooperation in the areas of trade, development and security.
"The US-Bangladesh Partnership Dialogue provided an opportunity to expand the robust bilateral relationship between the two countries," said a media note issued by the State Department on Friday.
Foreign Secretary Mohammed Mijarul Quayes and Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Wendy R Sherman co-chaired the dialogue in Washington held on Sept 19-20.
Both parties discussed regional integration, development and governance, trade, labour and investment, and security cooperation
Regional integration
Washington at the dialogue encouraged Dhaka to continue to play an active role in regional integration.
It urged the government to take initiatives on New Silk Road, the Indo-Pacific Corridor and the Indian Ocean organizations, and lauded Bangladesh's commitment to expand relations with neighbours such as India, China, Myanmar and others.
"Bangladesh, which lies at the crossroads of global powerhouses in South and East Asia, can play a key role in linking these critical regions."
Development and governance
"Moderate Muslim democracy and flourishing civil society organisations are the foundation of the Bangladesh-US bilateral partnership, and Dhaka is a key participant in all major Washington's development initiatives," the statement said.
"The United States also works with Bangladesh to strengthen democratic institutions, protect human rights, ensure space for a vibrant civil society, and improve governance and transparency."
At the Partnership Dialogue, both governments also discussed the importance of appointing a respected leader to serve as the new Managing Director of the Grameen Bank.
Trade, labour and investment
The two sides discussed ways to strengthen and expand already robust bilateral trade and investment ties.
"The United States looks forward to working with Bangladesh on investment climate matters, energy capacity and energy security, and development of internationally recognised labour standards."
They discussed planned delegations of the US trade and energy experts visiting Bangladesh in the coming year.
Security cooperation
The two governments also reviewed continued collaboration in countering violent extremism, military-to-military engagement, counter-narcotics efforts, UN peace-keeping operations and humanitarian assistance.
"The United States applauds the vital and active role Bangladesh plays in ensuring security and stability domestically, regionally and globally."