Visiting US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu on Wednesday (May 15) said although there are many issues between Bangladesh and the US, the settlement of those has been discussed with Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud.

The US wants to rebuild trust with the people of Bangladesh, said Lu after a meeting with the Foreign Minister at the foreign ministry in the capital.

He said: "Last year, there were a lot of tension between us and Bangladesh. The US worked very hard to promote free, fair and nonviolent elections and it caused the tension. It is common in our relationship."

US stands with Bangladesh in building a prosperous, secure, and democratic future, Lu also said.

“Our discussion with the Foreign Minister today reaffirmed our shared commitment to cultivating economic growth, bolstering the workforce, improving security cooperation, addressing the climate crisis, and reinforcing our values of respecting democracy and human rights,” he said.

Donald Lu arrived in Dhaka on Tuesday morning on a two-day visit to strengthen bilateral cooperation with Bangladesh.

During his visit, he met different government officials and civil society leaders to discuss US-Bangladesh cooperation, including addressing the climate crisis and deepening economic ties.

Lu is here as part of his tri-nation tour of the region. He earlier visited India and Sri Lanka.

This is also his first visit to Bangladesh after Awami League won the 7 January elections to form government for the third straight term.

BDST: 1838 HRS, MAY 15, 2024
MSK/SMS