Opposition Leader in Parliament and Jamaat Ameer Md Shafiqur Rahman on Saturday expressed his hope that Bangladesh-US relations would continue to deepen based on shared democratic values and mutual respect.
He made the remarks while addressing the “Freedom 250” event, marking the 250th anniversary of American independence, held at the South Plaza of Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. Shafiqur also extended his heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of the United States on the occasion of their 250th independence anniversary.
The opposition leader called for a transformation of the current Bangladesh-US relationship from a friendship into a genuine partnership focused on trade, security cooperation, and mutual support for democratic institutions.
He further expressed his gratitude to the United States for its long-standing humanitarian assistance provided to Rohingya refugees sheltered in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char.
Referring to international developments, Shafiqur said he welcomed the recent diplomatic efforts of the United States to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, including the ceasefire agreement with Iran, and called for persistent efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.
The commemorative event was jointly organised by the Bangladesh Parliamentary Caucus on America and the US Embassy in Dhaka. During his speech, Shafiqur congratulated the caucus for its work and remarked that the core responsibility of parliamentary diplomacy is to protect the interests of disadvantaged and marginalised groups, such as refugee families, people in flood-affected areas, and voiceless working people.
Deputy Speaker Kayser Kamal attended the programme as the chief guest. Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni and US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen also spoke at the event, which was conducted by Md Mahbubur Rahman, MP, co-chairman of Parliamentary Caucus on America.
