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Published : 22 Jan 2026, 09:15 PM
The United States has reaffirmed its strong support for Bangladesh’s democratic transition, with newly-appointed US Ambassador Brent Christensen stressing the importance of free, fair and inclusive elections.
Christensen made the remarks during a meeting with National Security Advisor Khalilur Rahman on Thursday afternoon at the latter’s office, according to a media statement from the Chief Advisor’s Office (CAO).
The hour-long meeting covered a range of key issues in Bangladesh–US relations, including the reciprocal tariff agreement, humanitarian support for the Rohingya, immigration matters such as visa bonds, and the return of undocumented Bangladeshis from the United States.
The discussion also covered American business and investment opportunities, economic cooperation, and regional issues of mutual concern.
Christensen praised the interim government’s election and reform initiatives, highlighting that participatory elections are crucial for democratic progress.
Khalilur welcomed Christensen as the new US ambassador, recalling his previous contributions in Dhaka and in Washington, DC, and expressed hope that bilateral cooperation would grow further during his tenure.
US Embassy Political and Economic Counsellor Eric Gillan also attended the meeting.
Christensen arrived in Dhaka on Jan 12.
He was nominated as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Bangladesh by US President Donald Trump in September and confirmed by the US Senate last month.
He previously served as political and economic counsellor at the US Embassy in Dhaka four years ago.
