US to support interim govt, strengthen ties, says envoy
The United States is committed to supporting Bangladesh's interim government and enhancing its relationship with Dhaka across various sectors, according to Helen LaFave, the US Charge d'Affaires in Dhaka.
LaFave made this assurance during a courtesy visit to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the state guesthouse Jamuna on Monday.
"The US government is pleased to congratulate the Chief Adviser and looks forward to a close working relationship," LaFave said, as reported by the chief adviser’s press wing.
The US diplomat announced that the US Embassy in Dhaka will resume consular services this week to expedite visa processing. She noted that thousands of Bangladeshi students are currently studying at US universities.
LaFave highlighted that the US intends to collaborate with Bangladesh in areas such as health, education, labour, governance, and Rohingya issues. She mentioned that Washington has begun resettling Rohingyas to the US and expressed hope for an accelerated process. The US is the largest donor to Rohingya humanitarian efforts, with increased funding this year leading to higher levels of food aid. LaFave also emphasized the need for livelihood opportunities for the Rohingyas.
Chief Adviser Yunus expressed gratitude for the US's ongoing support, including its funding for over one million Rohingyas residing in Cox's Bazar camps. He noted that the interim government is focused on implementing substantial reforms and will hold general elections after a suitable period.
Yunus called for a unified approach among donors for flood response efforts in Bangladesh. During the meeting, LaFave raised concerns about labour and minority issues, to which Yunus responded by affirming that all Bangladeshi citizens are protected by the constitution and that the interim government is dedicated to upholding human rights.
The discussion also covered human rights issues, cyber security laws, and the activities of the Rapid Action Battalion. LaFave mentioned that the US government is working to help Bangladesh establish a prosecutorial service to ensure fair trials.
