US gives 'highest status' to Prime Minister Tariq Rahman

Photo: Collected

News Desk: Foreign Affairs Adviser to the Prime Minister, Humayun Kabir, has said that the United States holds Prime Minister Tarique Rahman in the highest regard. He said this reflects the growing trust and strengthening ties between the two countries, which are now moving toward a broader strategic partnership.

Speaking to journalists at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday (2 August) about the visit of U.S. Ambassador Sergio Gor, the U.S. Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, Humayun Kabir made these remarks.

He said, "The United States regards Prime Minister Tarique Rahman with the highest respect. This demonstrates the depth of mutual trust and the strength of bilateral relations, which have reached a new level."

The foreign affairs adviser said that the U.S. envoy's remarks following Saturday's meeting with the Prime Minister reflected Washington's confidence in Bangladesh's leadership and its commitment to further strengthening relations with Dhaka.

Humayun Kabir stated that Ambassador Gor's visit was an introductory one. During the visit, both sides had the opportunity to exchange views in a cordial atmosphere on various strategic issues. According to the adviser, the discussions focused on trade, investment, technology, Bangladesh's growing economic potential, and closer cooperation on a range of international issues.

He said that Washington views Bangladesh as a promising technology hub in Asia over the next decade and is interested in strengthening cooperation to help realize that potential.

Humayun Kabir also said that the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is pursuing a policy of stronger and more sustainable economic engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. In this context, Bangladesh is considered an "extremely important and high-value" partner.

He added that the democratic mandate achieved through the national elections has further strengthened Bangladesh's international standing and credibility.

The adviser said that the government is pursuing a "Bangladesh First" foreign policy, placing national interests at the center of diplomacy, economic engagement, and security cooperation.

According to him, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Bangladesh is becoming increasingly visible on the global stage. Respect for Bangladesh is growing in key capitals around the world, including Washington, Beijing, and Riyadh, while the country continues to maintain balanced relations with all its partners.

Humayun Kabir further said, "The Prime Minister's personal leadership, humility, and approachable personality have enhanced Bangladesh's international image. As a result, the confidence of foreign governments and investors has increased further."

Responding to a question about the growing security cooperation between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia, he said that Dhaka and Riyadh are moving beyond their traditional religious ties toward a broader strategic partnership.

The foreign affairs adviser said that Bangladesh would continue to support Saudi Arabia whenever necessary, including cooperation on regional security issues. However, he emphasized that such cooperation is not directed against any particular country.

Replying to a question regarding Chinese investment, the adviser said that there had been no discussion concerning reports about any specific Chinese company.

He said Bangladesh expects significant investment from China while also looking forward to increased investment from the United States and other Western countries.

The foreign affairs adviser added, "Our investment environment will not become a field of conflict. We will maintain balanced relations and work equally with all our development partners."

In response to another question, Humayun Kabir said that the Ministry of Home Affairs has already initiated the necessary procedures to bring former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed back to Bangladesh from the United Arab Emirates. He added that the government would inform the media once there is further progress on the matter.