US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent Christensen has stated that the United States will work with whichever party emerges victorious in the upcoming election scheduled for 12 February.
Speaking during an exchange of views with media professionals at the capital’s EMK Centre on Wednesday, the ambassador highlighted the significant positive potential for bilateral relations.
This interaction marked his first formal meeting with journalists since assuming his duties on 12 January.
Regarding the future of the relationship between the two nations, Ambassador Christensen emphasised that the decision of who will be elected to lead the next government is a sovereign decision belonging solely to the people of Bangladesh.
He asserted that no other country has a right to interfere in this matter, noting that expressing their will through the ballot box to elect a new government is a sovereign right of the citizens.
The ambassador identified several key sectors where the US and Bangladesh can enhance their partnership, specifically mentioning the economy, trade, business, and security.
“I believe there are many positive possibilities for the US-Bangladesh relationship,” he remarked, noting that there are numerous areas where the two countries can work together.
Engagement across the political spectrum
Highlighting the US policy of broad engagement, Christensen noted that the United States maintains a long history of communicating with all political sides, whether they are in power or not.
He shared that he personally has had friends across the entirety of the political spectrum in Bangladesh for the past 20 years. Despite these diverse connections, he reiterated the US commitment to working with whoever wins the 12 February election.
Reflecting on the country’s trajectory, the ambassador observed that there have been “extensive changes” since August 2024 and expressed his belief that further changes are on the horizon.
Ambassador Christensen also expressed his gratitude to President Trump for selecting him for the position and granting him the opportunity to serve as the US ambassador in Dhaka.
He concluded by stating his eagerness to engage with people from all walks of life in Bangladesh and his interest in continuing ongoing discussions with the media and the public.
