News Desk

On March 4, Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman called for an early resolution of ongoing conflicts in the Gulf region through dialogue and diplomatic measures, stressing the importance of minimizing loss of life and preventing further regional destabilization. His remarks came during a high-level meeting with visiting US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Paul Kapur at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka.

The two-day visit of the US official underscores Washington’s interest in strengthening engagement with Bangladesh on multiple fronts, particularly in economic, political, and security cooperation. According to an official statement from the foreign ministry, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further consolidating Bangladesh–United States relations, grounded in mutual respect and shared interests.

During the discussions, Dr. Khalilur Rahman highlighted the government’s “Bangladesh First” policy under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, emphasizing Dhaka’s strategy to maintain strong and constructive relations with regional and global partners to advance national interests and promote shared prosperity. He also underlined the government’s commitment to policy continuity, especially in economic development and trade initiatives, as part of Bangladesh’s long-term growth strategy.

Paul Kapur held a brief discussion with State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam

Paul Kapur congratulated the new government, noting that Bangladesh’s recent general election was peaceful, free, and festive. He referred to a congratulatory letter sent by US President Donald Trump to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, expressing confidence that bilateral relations would continue to strengthen. Kapur emphasized the importance of implementing the provisions of the Reciprocal Trade Agreement (RTA) to enhance trade and investment ties between the two countries.

The recent escalation in the Middle East was also a key topic of discussion. Dr. Khalilur Rahman urged restraint from all parties and stressed the urgent need for diplomatic measures to reduce casualties and prevent further regional instability. The meeting also addressed the Rohingya crisis, with the foreign minister expressing gratitude to the United States for its continued humanitarian support and calling for sustained international efforts toward a durable and lasting resolution.

Both leaders expressed optimism that regular high-level engagements and institutional dialogues would continue to deepen Bangladesh–US relations, promoting broader cooperation in trade, investment, humanitarian assistance, and regional security. Prior to meeting with the foreign minister, Paul Kapur also held a brief discussion with State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, further reinforcing bilateral engagement at multiple levels.