Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has informed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio that Bangladesh’s national elections will be held early next year, while seeking American support for the democratic transition.
During a 15-minute phone call on Monday evening, Yunus emphasised that ongoing dialogues between the government and political parties would facilitate expected reforms in the country’s political system.
The conversation covered several critical areas of cooperation, including trade relations where both leaders expressed optimism about soon concluding tariff negotiations to expand bilateral commerce.
Yunus specifically thanked President Donald Trump for the 90-day suspension of countervailing duties on Bangladeshi exports, noting collaborative work on a comprehensive trade package aligned with US priorities.
On regional issues, the chief adviser acknowledged Washington’s crucial role as the largest humanitarian donor in the Rohingya crisis since 2017, while expressing cautious optimism about recent developments in potential repatriation to Myanmar.
The leaders also reaffirmed their shared commitment to enhancing security and stability across the Indo-Pacific region, discussing Bangladesh’s relations with neighbouring states.
In a notable gesture, Yunus extended an invitation to Secretary Rubio to visit Bangladesh ahead of the elections, suggesting such a visit would greatly inspire the nation’s youth.
The discussion concluded with mutual assurances to maintain close coordination on matters of shared interest as Bangladesh prepares for its pivotal democratic exercise next year.
