US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen said President Donald Trump has set out a clear vision to elevate relations with Dhaka, and he is working hard to make that a reality.
“After 100 days, I am even more optimistic about the future of US‑Bangladesh relations. I can’t wait to see what we all accomplish next,” Christensen said in a video message released on Wednesday, marking 100 days since his arrival.
In just 100 days, he advanced US-Bangladesh relations from groundbreaking trade and health partnerships to cultural exchanges that bring the people closer together.
The envoy noted that Bangladesh and the US had signed a “historic trade agreement” aimed at balancing the trade deficit and boosting prosperity for both nations. “I have tirelessly advocated for US businesses across Bangladesh to build those trade ties,” he said.
Christensen said Washington and Dhaka are also cooperating to combat illegal migration and strengthen security ties for a free and open Indo‑Pacific.
He pointed to a new health partnership tackling tuberculosis and measles and reaffirmed that the US remains the largest donor supporting Bangladesh’s hosting of Rohingya refugees while continuing to push for a political solution.
Reflecting on his time in Dhaka, Christensen said he had received an “incredible welcome” and enjoyed reconnecting with Bangladesh—visiting cultural and historical sites, joining Pohela Baishakh festivities, watching a cricket match, and sampling local foods with a blogger.
“I came at an important time, just before Bangladesh’s historic February election,” he said, adding that the US was the first country to recognise the results and congratulate the new government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
Christensen, who has worked on US policy toward Bangladesh and the region for over two decades, said his primary responsibility as ambassador is to advance the interests of the American people and Trump’s agenda of making America safer, stronger and more prosperous.
He presented his credentials to Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin at Bangabhaban in Dhaka on 15 January and pledged to further strengthen bilateral ties.
Over the past 50 years, Christensen said, the US and Bangladesh have worked together to promote regional stability, economic growth, and the sovereignty of both nations.
