Despite power shift, no threat to US-Bangladesh ties: MoFA

The likelihood of conflicts arising over mutual interests between Bangladesh and the United States remains low, stated Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mohammad Rafiqul Alam during the ministry's weekly briefing on Thursday (December 5).

Addressing questions about potential challenges in working with the US, particularly under shifting administrations, Rafiqul Alam emphasised the depth and continuity of the bilateral relationship: "Our relations with the US span over five decades and are multifaceted. The US is one of our key trade and investment partners. Despite changes in leadership, their foreign policy and strategic objectives have remained largely consistent. We worked effectively with the previous Trump administration, and the possibility of conflict over mutual interests remains slim."

Responding to a query about fallen Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina addressing a political event in the UK virtually, Rafiqul Alam confirmed the ministry's awareness of the event but refrained from detailed comments.

"We know from media reports that she will address a political meeting virtually. She is currently in India, and the specifics of how this is being facilitated would be better explained by the Indian authorities," he said.

Commenting on the suspension of consular services at the Bangladeshi Assistant High Commission in Agartala, Alam attributed it to security concerns.

"Due to the prevailing security situation, consular services have been temporarily halted at the Agartala mission. We will inform the public once conditions improve," he assured.

Rafiqul Alam iterated Bangladesh's commitment to maintaining and strengthening its longstanding partnership with the US, underlining the shared interests and cooperative history that have defined the relationship over decades.