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Published : 19 Feb 2026, 06:54 PM
US President Donald Trump has congratulated Tarique Rahman on his “historic election win” and his assumption of office as Bangladesh’s new prime minister, voicing hopes for stronger trade and defence ties.
In a letter sent on Wednesday, Trump wrote: “On behalf of the American people, I congratulate you on your historic election and wish you a successful term as Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh.”
He said the partnership between the two countries is “based on mutual respect and a shared interest in fostering a free and open Indo-Pacific where strong, sovereign nations can prosper”.
Referring to the recently signed trade deal with the interim administration, Trump added: “As you begin your term, I hope you will help me maintain the tremendous momentum in our trade relationship through the implementation of our Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, which benefits farmers and workers in both of our countries.”
The US president also called for progress on defence cooperation, saying: “I also hope you will take decisive action to complete the routine defense agreements that would finally give your military access to high-end, American-made equipment -- the best in the world!”
Trump expressed his intention to deepen bilateral ties, writing that he looks forward to working with Tarique “to make the relationship between the United States and Bangladesh stronger than ever before”.
He also voiced confidence in US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen, saying both countries have an opportunity to become “more prosperous and secure”.
