Bangladesh News Bangladesh - U.S.A Relation

[Isa Khan]

DHAKA, June 14, 2023 (BSS) - The closing ceremony of the joint training and exercise of Bangladesh Navy and the United States Navy titled 'Exercise Tiger SHARK-40' has concluded today at BNS Nirvik at Chattogram.

Bangladesh Navy's Swords Command, Army's Para Commando Brigade and US Navy's Special Forces led the programme.

Regional Commander of Chittagong Naval Region Rear Admiral Abdullah Al Mamun Chowdhury was present as the chief guest at the closing ceremony, said a press release.

Besides, selected representatives from the United States Embassy in Bangladesh participated in the exercise.

The exercise was attended by other officials and invited guests from Armed Forces Department, Army, Navy and Chittagong Naval Region among others.

Bangladesh Army and Navy Special Forces and US Special Forces participated in this training exercise under the management of Commodore Swords Command.

The main objective of the joint training exercise, which started on May 21, 2023 at BNS Nirvik, Chittagong, was to improve the existing good relations between Bangladesh and the United States, as well as to increase the professional capabilities of the special forces of both countries.

'Exercise Tiger SHARK-40' concludes | News

DHAKA, June 14, 2023 (BSS) - The closing ceremony of the joint training and exercise of Bangladesh Navy and the

www.bssnews.net

 

[Isa Khan]

State-owned pharmaceutical company Essential Drugs Company Limited (EDCL) on Wednesday inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with US-based Dyadic International company to set up a vaccine plant, first of its kind in the country, to produce different vaccines including that for Covid-19.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Prof Dr Ehsanul Kabir and Dyadic International CEO Mark A Emalfarb signed the deal on behalf of their respective organisations at the conference room of the Health and Family Welfare Ministry in the secretariat.

As per the deal, the US company will provide the EDCL with necessary technical assistance to produce, preserve and maintain quality of the vaccines.

Health Minister Zahid Maleque, who was present during the deal signing ceremony, said initially the Covid-19 vaccine will be produced at the plant.

Subsequently, twelve types of vaccines along with the Covid-19 vaccine will be produced in phases, he said.

He said Bangladesh had to bring 36 crore doses of Covid-19 vaccines worth Tk40,000 crore during the Corona pandemic but most of them were given to the country free of cost.

The health minister said the plant will be built on seven to eight acres of land by the EDCL in Gopalganj.

He said the plant will be able to produce vaccines partially in the next two years and in full swing in the next four years.

The minister said they received commitment from the Asian Development Bank to get a $300 million for establishing the plant.

MoU signed with US company to set up first ever vaccine producing plant in country

State-owned pharmaceutical company Essential Drugs Company Limited (EDCL) on Wednesday inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with US-based Dyadic International company to set up a vaccine plant, first of its kind in the country, to produce different vaccines including that for Covid-19...

www.tbsnews.net

 

[Isa Khan]

Lt. Col. Malttab, left, with the Bangladesh Armed Forces Prime Minister Office, South Sector Headquarters, talks with Staff Sgt. Pablo Velazquez, with the 49th Missile Defense Battalion, during Khaan Quest’s Command Post Exercise June 27, 2023, at the Five Hills Training Area, Mongolia.

Approximately 200 U.S. personnel and a total of 750 partner force personnel are participating in KQ23. The purpose of Khaan Quest is to gain United Nations training and certification for the participants through conducting realistic peace support operations, to include increasing and enhancing UN Peacekeeping Operations-focused interoperability and military relationships among the participating nations. (Alaska National Guard photo by Robert DeBerry)

 

[Isa Khan]

Bangladesh will again urge the US for duty-free access as the tariff imposed on exports from the country is one the highest faced by goods entering the western nation, according to Senior Commerce Secretary Tapan Kanti Ghosh.

On Saturday, Ghosh told The Daily Star that he would raise this demand at the sixth edition of the Trade and Investment Cooperation Forum Agreement (Ticfa).

The two-day annual forum that aims to identify and address obstacles for increasing bilateral trade and investment between the two countries is set to kick off in Dhaka on September 11.

At the Ticfa, the United States Trade Representative (USTR), the chief trade negotiating body of the US, may raise concerns on the condition of labour and intellectual property rights in Bangladesh, among other trade related issues.

However, the main topic of discussion for Bangladesh will be about securing duty-free access or reduced tariff for exports to the US market, Ghosh added.

Exported goods, particularly garment items, currently face 15.62 per cent duty when shipped to the US.

Ghosh said Bangladesh has already withdrawn the rule requiring double fumigation of US cotton, which was a long-time demand of the American government.

So, Bangladesh will now raise the issue of being granted duty-free access at the Ticfa meeting.

The fifth round of the Ticfa meeting was held in America's Washington in December last year.

The meeting was co-chaired by Christopher Wilson, assistant trade representative of the USTR for south and central Asian affairs, and Tapan Kanti Ghosh, senior secretary of the commerce ministry, according to a statement from the USTR.

Both delegations included officials from trade, labour, agriculture, and other relevant ministries, as per a statement from the USTR.

During the meeting, the US and Bangladesh discussed a range of issues impacting bilateral trade, including market access for agricultural products, labour rights, digital trade policies, intellectual property protection, and policies impacting the investment climate.

The two countries stressed the importance of their strong economic and trade relationship, with the countries having surpassed $10 billion in two-way trade in 2021.

At the fifth Ticfa meeting, the US and Bangladesh made progress in reducing barriers to market access for certain agricultural products. They also discussed ways to further facilitate bilateral trade in food and agricultural products through the use of science and risk-based policies that ensure safe goods.

In addition, both sides affirmed the importance of Bangladesh's efforts to reform its labour laws and discussed the country's interest in restoring its beneficiary status under the generalised system of preferences of the US.

Consistent with the Biden administration's focus on worker-centric trade policies, the US highlighted its priorities in implementing and enforcing labour laws to protect workers' rights to freedom of association and collective bargaining, and to a safe and healthy workplace, the USTR said.

The US emphasised greater alignment between Bangladesh's domestic labour laws and international labour standards, in particular by extending fundamental rights of freedom of association and collective bargaining to the export processing zones and special economic zones.

Bangladesh and the US had signed the Ticfa in November in 2013 to resolve different trade related issues through bilateral discussions.

The global economic slowdown stemming from the Covid-19 fallout and ongoing Russia-Ukraine war reduced merchandise shipments from Bangladesh to the US in the just-concluded fiscal year.

As such, shipments to the country's largest export destination slipped 6.82 per cent to $9.70 billion in fiscal 2022-23 compared to $10.41 billion the year prior, as per data from the Export Promotion Bureau.

Bangladesh will again seek duty benefits in US

Bangladesh will again urge the US for duty-free access as the tariff imposed on exports from the country is one the highest faced by goods entering the western nation, according to Senior Commerce Secretary Tapan Kanti Ghosh.

www.thedailystar.net

 

[Isa Khan]

Brig. Gen. Hussain Muhammad Masihur Rahman, directorate general of ops and planning, armed forces division, Bangladesh Army and U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Paula C. Lodi, commanding general 18th medical command United States Army Indo-Pacific Command (USARPAC) exchange ideas during a Women, Peace & Security (WPS) workshop, at the inaugural South Asia Regional Disaster Response Exercise (DREE), Guam Army National Readiness Training Center, Guam, 13 July 20203. DREE aims to enhance regional cooperation and camaraderie, strengthen disaster response capabilities, and improve overall strategies, mechanisms, and coordination efforts. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Elizabeth MacPherson)

 

[Isa Khan]

6th Airman to Airman Talk-2023 was held betwew Bangladesh Air Force and Pacific Air Force (PACAF). In this bilateral meeting, various issues related to disaster management including increasing interoperability between BAF & PACAF, training exchange were highlighted.

 

[Isa Khan]

The global energy giant US oil company ExxonMobil has offered to invest up to $30 billion for deep-sea oil and gas exploration in Bangladesh's Bay of Bengal set to commence by November this year.

Bangladesh government is considering towards the agreement with ExxonMobil is positive, said Petrobangla and Energy and Mineral Resources Division.

It will form a technical committee with experts, lawyers and related stockholders.

Energy experts of Bangladesh welcomed the ExxonMobil’s proposal and said, “The US Company is interested in exploring the sea of Bangladesh for its own interests due to geopolitical reasons. It is an opportunity for Bangladesh. It will open the door to oil and gas exploration in the deep sea.” However, they advised to focus on protecting the interests of Bangladesh in the agreement.

According to Petrobangla, there are 26 oil blocks in Bangladesh’s parts of Bay of Bengal, in which 11 blocks in shallow water and 15 blocks in deep water.

ExxonMobil proposed to get all the deep sea exploration in January this year on their very step. However, the government has decided not to allow any single company operating in the Bay of Bengal and there were many discussions about US-Bangladesh relations in the political arena.

On July 16, ExxonMobil sent another letter to the State Minister for Power Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid. The letter reads, the oil company will invest $40 to $50 million to conduct a two-dimension seismic survey in the deep sea. If there is a possibility of getting gas in this survey, three dimension seismic surveys will be done later for more confirmation and it will cost $50 to $100 million.

Later, it will be investing $80 million, in the development of each well, count $10 to $30 billion for deep sea exploration.

In the letter, ExxonMobil said if the whole process is successful, Bangladesh will save $3 billion yearly from the amount it currently spends on importing liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Petrobangla sources said ExxonMobil showed interest to quickly signing the deal with Bangladesh. They are now ready to negotiate in this regard after signing the MoU. The company is keen to start the two-dimension survey in November this year. For this reason, they have proposed to discuss in the mid-August. Before that, they also said that they will hold a direct discussion with the delegation of Bangladesh on July 24.

Even if there is no success in the exploration, it is ready to take the necessary investment as well as the technical risk for the deep sea survey in Bangladesh, the proposal letter reads.

Speaking to The Business Post, Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury, power energy and mineral resources said, "At many times, some international companies showed interest in deep sea exploration but later they left. Exxon Mobil may be interested in Bangladesh for its geostrategic loaction. There will be reconciliation with them by prioritizing the interests of Bangladesh.”

Petrobangla said the model PSC-2023 is in final stage to attract foreign companies for offshore oil and gas exploration. It is likely to be taken up in the cabinet on procurement next week for approval. According to sources, the government will set up a high-level committee to review Exxon Mobil's proposal and start formal discussions with them once the PSC revision is finalized.

Geologist Professor Badrul Imam said, "Despite the huge potential of getting oil and gas in the sea of Bangladesh, there is stagnant perspective. No exploration plan has been undertaken in the last 20 years.”

Onshore exploration is in stuck which interrupted to the countries energy supply. The government's dependence on imports to meet the deficit is increasing. In such a situation, the interest shown by ExxonMobil is very positive for Bangladesh, he added.

ExxonMobil offers $30b investment

The global energy giant US oil company ExxonMobil has offered to invest up to $30 billion for deep-sea oil and gas exploration in Bangladesh's Bay of Bengal set

businesspostbd.com

 

[Isa Khan]

The United States has requested that Sonali Bank, a state-owned bank in Bangladesh, close its accounts in two banks in Myanmar that are currently under sanctions from the US government.

In June, the US imposed sanctions on the Myanmar Foreign Trade Bank and the Myanmar Investment and Commercial Bank – both state-owned.

Later, the US Embassy in Dhaka wrote a letter to Bangladesh's foreign ministry, asking for closing the accounts of Sonali Bank in those banks.

On 3 August, the foreign ministry forwarded the letter to Sonali Bank and advised it to take necessary measures.

The situation has put the country's biggest state-owned bank in a difficult position. Sonali Bank has $17,000 in deposits with Myanmar Foreign Trade Bank and $200,000 with Myanmar Investment and Commercial Bank.

Sonali Bank officials said the money is now frozen, which means that they cannot withdraw or transfer the amounts.

On the other hand, Sonali Bank has deposits of $100,000 from Myanmar Foreign Trade Bank and $1 million from Myanmar Investment and Commercial Bank. The Myanmar government is now trying to withdraw the amounts, and the Myanmar ambassador in Dhaka has also held a meeting with Sonali Bank to this end, said the officials.

The Bangladesh Bank has suggested that Sonali Bank does not transfer the money right now, they said.

Most of Bangladesh's bilateral trade with Myanmar is done through Sonali Bank.

Sonali Bank Managing Director Afzal Karim told TBS, "The accounts have been kept as they are for the time being. But no transaction is taking place. No decision has been made yet on their closures. The decision will be made as per instructions from the relevant authorities. Initially, it was thought that the money from those two banks should be transferred to other banks. But it is not possible due to the sanctions.

"On the other hand, the money of the Myanmar banks in Sonali Bank will not be transferred. Although the Myanmar ambassador wants his country's bank money to be transferred to another bank, there is no scope to transfer money held by banks under sanctions."

Sonali Bank has sought instructions from the Bangladesh Bank on the issue. But the central bank has not issued any clear decisions yet.

Immediately after the letter from the US Embassy, the Dhaka office of the US multinational financial services company JPMorgan also sent a letter to Sonali Bank, asking for information about its accounts in banks under sanctions across the world and the latest status of transactions with them.

JPMorgan works as a partner of Sonali Bank in various fields of international transactions, such as payment settlement and letters of credit confirmation.

Mollica Senapati, a spokeswoman in Mumbai for JPMorgan, declined to comment, saying in an email, "Thanks for reaching out. We, however, decline to comment on the issue."

Following the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war, the US has imposed sanctions on several Russian banks and individuals. Since then, it has become difficult to do direct business with Russia from Bangladesh. Bangladeshi banks used to have correspondent banking with sanctioned banks and had more transactions, which is not happening now. The US has imposed sanctions on some institutions and individuals in Russia's ally Belarus as well.

America has introduced a new visa policy for Bangladesh, outlining restrictions on any Bangladeshi nationals deemed responsible for or involved in obstructing a democratic election process in the country.

Bangladesh's bilateral trade with Myanmar is not big.

Bangladesh imports timber, frozen fish, ginger, onions, betel nut, woollen brooms, coconuts, pickles, dried fruits, cane, tamarind seeds, pulses, and chickpeas from Myanmar under the border trade between the two countries.

On the other hand, the exports from Bangladesh to Myanmar are potatoes, biscuits, hosiery and plastic products.

According to data from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), Bangladesh exported merchandise worth nearly $3.9 million to Myanmar in 2021-22.

On the other hand, according to the latest data from the Bangladesh Bank, in the fiscal 2020-21, Bangladeshi businessmen imported products worth Tk1,409 crore (equivalent to about $130 million as per the current dollar rate) from Myanmar.

US wants Sonali Bank to close accounts in two Myanmar banks

The United States has requested that Sonali Bank, a state-owned bank in Bangladesh, close its accounts in two banks in Myanmar that are currently under sanctions from the US government. In June, the US imposed sanctions on the Myanmar Foreign Trade Bank and the Myanmar Investment and Commercial...

www.tbsnews.net

 

[Isa Khan]

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen said Bangladesh has declined the proposal put forth by US congressmen Ed Case and Richard McCormick to assimilate the Rohingya population by providing them with skills and education.

"We said no [to them]. We said Bangladesh is one of the most densely populated countries. We do not need citizens from other countries," Momen told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs while responding to a question today (16 August).

Momen said Rohingyas should go back to their country of origin for a better life. "The US can take some of the Rohingyas," he suggested.

The US said they would take Rohingyas but they did not, the foreign minister said.

Momen said that Western countries may have the perception that Bangladesh Bangladesh is inclined to absorb Rohingya refugees since they are living here.

"Repatriation is the priority. The US should make efforts for their return to Myanmar," he said, adding that Myanmar is not Bangladesh's enemy, but they have some problems.

Earlier, the foreign minister said Myanmar is willing to take back Rohingyas but some foreign governments and international organisations are not supporting their repatriation at this moment.

"They [international community] think it will not be wise to send the Rohingyas back to Myanmar until democracy is restored there," he told a group of reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 2 August.

Momen said they think there is a need for positive approach from all stakeholders who are working on the Rohingya issue to begin repatriation.

The foreign minister said Rohingyas are willing to return, and the Myanmar government is also willing to take them back.

Bangladesh rejects US congressmen's suggestion to assimilate Rohingyas: Momen

The US had expressed intentions to take Rohingyas but they did not follow through, the foreign minister said

www.tbsnews.net

 

[Isa Khan]

The ninth US-Bangladesh security dialogue is expected to be held in Dhaka after the last one in Washington in 2022, the foreign ministry has said.

Ministry spokesperson Seheli Sabrin said the next dialogue is part of a routine process to improve bilateral ties.

She did not reveal the date for the dialogue, but officials said they expect the dialogue to take place by the end of September.

Describing the “dynamic” ties with the US, Seheli said America is the single-largest market for Bangladeshi goods and has the highest amount of investment in the South Asian country.

“They are also leading in providing humanitarian assistance for the Rohingya refugees. So, Dhaka and Washington regularly hold dialogues on many issues.”

When asked if the government contacted Beijing over reports that China is constructing hydroelectric dams on the Brahmaputra River, Seheli said the ministry did not have enough information on the matter.
She also said no foreign country has requested permission to send observers for the next general election scheduled to be held by January 2024.

A European Union delegation visited Bangladesh in July to review whether to send observers and a US delegation is due in October for the same reason, Seheli said.

Although Seheli said the security dialogue is part of a routine process, it is being held at a time when the US is pressuring Bangladesh over human rights issues and free and fair polls.

The US has imposed sanctions on the Rapid Action Battalion of Bangladesh over reports of gross violation of human rights.

It has also threatened visa ban on Bangladeshis who hinder the democratic process.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday said the US is pressuring Bangladesh because it wants to create a situation and take control over the Bay of Bengal, a region strategically important for establishing dominance in Asia.

Dhaka hopes to host 9th security dialogue with Washington

bdnews24.com

 

[Isa Khan]

Foreign Security Force professionals from Bangladesh, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand are participating in an eight-week Patrol Craft Officer-Riverine (PCOR) course near the John C. Stennis Space Center, in Mississippi, that is designed to provide personnel with the specialized training to effectively plan and safely execute patrol craft security actions in a riverine environment.

 

[Isa Khan]

https://twitter.com/i/web/status/1693391832162750543

 

[Isa Khan]

The ninth US-Bangladesh security dialogue is expected to be held in Dhaka after the last one in Washington in 2022, the foreign ministry has said.

Ministry spokesperson Seheli Sabrin said the next dialogue is part of a routine process to improve bilateral ties.

She did not reveal the date for the dialogue, but officials said they expect the dialogue to take place by the end of September.

Describing the “dynamic” ties with the US, Seheli said America is the single-largest market for Bangladeshi goods and has the highest amount of investment in the South Asian country.

“They are also leading in providing humanitarian assistance for the Rohingya refugees. So, Dhaka and Washington regularly hold dialogues on many issues.”

When asked if the government contacted Beijing over reports that China is constructing hydroelectric dams on the Brahmaputra River, Seheli said the ministry did not have enough information on the matter.
She also said no foreign country has requested permission to send observers for the next general election scheduled to be held by January 2024.

A European Union delegation visited Bangladesh in July to review whether to send observers and a US delegation is due in October for the same reason, Seheli said.

Although Seheli said the security dialogue is part of a routine process, it is being held at a time when the US is pressuring Bangladesh over human rights issues and free and fair polls.

The US has imposed sanctions on the Rapid Action Battalion of Bangladesh over reports of gross violation of human rights.

It has also threatened visa ban on Bangladeshis who hinder the democratic process.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday said the US is pressuring Bangladesh because it wants to create a situation and take control over the Bay of Bengal, a region strategically important for establishing dominance in Asia.

Dhaka hopes to host 9th security dialogue with Washington

bdnews24.com

Security dialogue between Bangladesh and the US is set to take place in Dhaka on Wednesday, as part of the broader multi-level talks between the two nations. Primary focus of the meeting will revolve around Bangladesh's potential contribution to the Indo-Pacific region.

Alongside this agenda, discussions may also include topics related to the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) and the Acquisition Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA).

Confirming the details on Monday, diplomatic sources provided the first official acknowledgment of the impending security dialogue between the two countries. At the upcoming 10th security dialogue between the two countries, Brigadier General Husain Muhammad Masihur Rahman, Director General of the Operations and Planning Division of the Armed Forces Department (AFD), will lead the Bangladesh delegation.

Brigadier General Thomas J James, Director of Strategic Planning and Policy Affairs at the Indo-Pacific Command of the United States, will lead the US delegation.

According to diplomatic sources, the upcoming security dialogue between Bangladesh and the United States will cover a range of topics, including the Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS), the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), and the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) as integral parts of the security agreement.

Discussions are expected to encompass regional and global security matters, collaborative efforts between the military forces of both nations, defense equipment, disaster management strategies, peacekeeping and establishment, training initiatives, military officer exchange visits, and measures to counteract militancy.

One of the United States' key priorities is to establish a free, open, inclusive, peaceful, and secure Indo-Pacific region, aiming to curtail China's influence. This objective underscores their determination to maintain a robust presence and influence within the region, regardless of the associated challenges. Democracy and human rights also hold significant importance within the Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) as they endeavor to uphold these values while pursuing their regional goals.

According to a diplomatic source, the US side may discuss how Bangladesh can contribute to a free, open, inclusive, peaceful and secure Indo-Pacific region. Bangladesh's position on the Indo-Pacific region will also be discussed in the meeting. Discussions on IPS will emphasize democracy and human rights from Washington side as it is currently the global priority of the United States.

Starting in 2012, the ninth meeting of the Dhaka-Washington Bilateral security dialogue was held in the United States in mid-May last year.

This meeting will address the subject of arms procurement from the United States. Bangladesh is aiming to modernise its military capabilities to achieve the objectives outlined in the Forces Goal 2030 initiative. The government is actively pursuing a strategy to diversify its sources for arms procurement, moving away from relying solely on a single country. In line with this strategy, Bangladesh is seeking to acquire advanced weaponry not only from the United States but also from other potential suppliers.

In 2018, Bangladesh submitted a proposal to the United States for the acquisition of advanced military equipment. However, the United States typically requires a defence contract before selling advanced military hardware. Consequently, Washington communicated to Dhaka sign GSOMIA agreement if Bangladesh intended to procure advanced military technology.

Bangladesh agrees on principle to enter into a security agreement with the United States. The two countries are presently collaborating on drafting the proposed agreement.

Bangladesh is considering three things while procuring arms. The first is price. Bangladesh will make purchase within its existing capacity. Second is the quality of weapons. Bangladesh will emphasise more on this.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will play a role in procuring good quality weapons at affordable prices. And lastly is the strategic consideration. Bangladesh will procure weapons considering the strategic aspects in the geopolitical context.

Bangladesh has taken a decision on principle regarding GSOMIA between the two security agreements with the United States. However, there appears to be a more cautious approach being taken by Dhaka in relation to actually finalising the agreement.

In a recent statement to journalists, Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen indicated that the prospect of a security agreement with the US before the elections is unlikely.

US-Bangladesh security dialogue Wednesday, discussion over agreements

The United States and Bangladesh are set to discuss a range of topics in their defense dialogue, including the Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS), the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), and the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA). The goal of the dialogue is to...

en.prothomalo.com

 

[Isa Khan]

Security dialogue between Bangladesh and the US is set to take place in Dhaka on Wednesday, as part of the broader multi-level talks between the two nations. Primary focus of the meeting will revolve around Bangladesh's potential contribution to the Indo-Pacific region.

Alongside this agenda, discussions may also include topics related to the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) and the Acquisition Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA).

Confirming the details on Monday, diplomatic sources provided the first official acknowledgment of the impending security dialogue between the two countries. At the upcoming 10th security dialogue between the two countries, Brigadier General Husain Muhammad Masihur Rahman, Director General of the Operations and Planning Division of the Armed Forces Department (AFD), will lead the Bangladesh delegation.

Brigadier General Thomas J James, Director of Strategic Planning and Policy Affairs at the Indo-Pacific Command of the United States, will lead the US delegation.

According to diplomatic sources, the upcoming security dialogue between Bangladesh and the United States will cover a range of topics, including the Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS), the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), and the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) as integral parts of the security agreement.

Discussions are expected to encompass regional and global security matters, collaborative efforts between the military forces of both nations, defense equipment, disaster management strategies, peacekeeping and establishment, training initiatives, military officer exchange visits, and measures to counteract militancy.

One of the United States' key priorities is to establish a free, open, inclusive, peaceful, and secure Indo-Pacific region, aiming to curtail China's influence. This objective underscores their determination to maintain a robust presence and influence within the region, regardless of the associated challenges. Democracy and human rights also hold significant importance within the Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) as they endeavor to uphold these values while pursuing their regional goals.

According to a diplomatic source, the US side may discuss how Bangladesh can contribute to a free, open, inclusive, peaceful and secure Indo-Pacific region. Bangladesh's position on the Indo-Pacific region will also be discussed in the meeting. Discussions on IPS will emphasize democracy and human rights from Washington side as it is currently the global priority of the United States.

Starting in 2012, the ninth meeting of the Dhaka-Washington Bilateral security dialogue was held in the United States in mid-May last year.

This meeting will address the subject of arms procurement from the United States. Bangladesh is aiming to modernise its military capabilities to achieve the objectives outlined in the Forces Goal 2030 initiative. The government is actively pursuing a strategy to diversify its sources for arms procurement, moving away from relying solely on a single country. In line with this strategy, Bangladesh is seeking to acquire advanced weaponry not only from the United States but also from other potential suppliers.

In 2018, Bangladesh submitted a proposal to the United States for the acquisition of advanced military equipment. However, the United States typically requires a defence contract before selling advanced military hardware. Consequently, Washington communicated to Dhaka sign GSOMIA agreement if Bangladesh intended to procure advanced military technology.

Bangladesh agrees on principle to enter into a security agreement with the United States. The two countries are presently collaborating on drafting the proposed agreement.

Bangladesh is considering three things while procuring arms. The first is price. Bangladesh will make purchase within its existing capacity. Second is the quality of weapons. Bangladesh will emphasise more on this.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will play a role in procuring good quality weapons at affordable prices. And lastly is the strategic consideration. Bangladesh will procure weapons considering the strategic aspects in the geopolitical context.

Bangladesh has taken a decision on principle regarding GSOMIA between the two security agreements with the United States. However, there appears to be a more cautious approach being taken by Dhaka in relation to actually finalising the agreement.

In a recent statement to journalists, Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen indicated that the prospect of a security agreement with the US before the elections is unlikely.

US-Bangladesh security dialogue Wednesday, discussion over agreements

The United States and Bangladesh are set to discuss a range of topics in their defense dialogue, including the Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS), the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), and the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA). The goal of the dialogue is to...

en.prothomalo.com

 

[Isa Khan]

American companies are interested in investing in a broader range of sectors having growth potential in Bangladesh, including aerospace, digital economy, energy and life sciences, said US-Bangladesh Business Council President Atul Keshap.

"Bangladesh has done so many things right to help its people generate wealth and prosperity and our companies have been a part of that as American companies have been investing here for several decades," he told reporters after a delegation of the US Chamber of Commerce met prime minister's Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman F Rahman at the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (Bida) office in the capital on Tuesday.

It was the largest-ever American business delegation meeting with the Bangladesh government where executives of some 40 US firms attended.

The list of the firms includes trillion-dollar investment fund manager Blackstone, Visa, Mastercard, Boeing, Meta, Metlife, Uber, Abbott, Chevron, ExxonMobil, Excelerate Energy, Bell Textron, GE Aerospace, Standard Chartered, Drinkwell, Corteva alongside the Bangladesh-focus US ventures like Chaldal, Anchorless Bangladesh, Praava Health.

Atul Keshap said the executives had "a good and mutually respectful dialogue with the Bangladesh government".

"Through such discussion with the government, we may work through the issues that might come up and hopefully generate further investment and prosperity," Atul added.

In the press briefing after the meeting, Salman F Rahman said the US firms' executives lauded the economic development and market opportunities in Bangladesh and expressed their interest in investing in various sectors. The Bangladesh government will keep supporting foreign investors.

Bangladeshis spend huge sums every year for their healthcare abroad and seeing the growing market here with a lucrative return potential, the US investors were interested in healthcare investments in the country, Salman said.

He said the Smart Bangladesh vision offers many investment opportunities to US firms, adding that e-commerce could be a lucrative sector.

The government is also working to facilitate cross-border online trades and international electronic payments to unleash the potential, he said.

The issues with foreign currency payments from Bangladesh nowadays have been a concern for some investors, Salman said, adding, "They [US company representatives] understand well that the forex issues were a consequence of the Russia-Ukraine war. Not only Bangladesh but the entire developing world faced a hard time managing their exchange rates and forex reserves."

The USA is the largest source of cumulative foreign direct investment in Bangladesh.

Salman F Rahman also said no discussion about Bangladesh's upcoming national election was held in the meeting, instead, the business executives lauded the growth story of Bangladesh under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

US firms eye Bangladesh’s aerospace, tech, energy sectors

The USA is the largest source of cumulative foreign direct investment in Bangladesh

www.tbsnews.net

 

[Isa Khan]

Foreign Security Force professionals from Bangladesh, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand are participating in an eight-week Patrol Craft Officer-Riverine (PCOR) course near the John C. Stennis Space Center, in Mississippi, that is designed to provide personnel with the specialized training to effectively plan and safely execute patrol craft security actions in a riverine environment.

International security force professionals from #Bangladesh, the #Philippines, #SriLanka, and #thailand react to simulated attacks in a riverine environment on the Pearl River, near the John C. Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. The students are participating in an eight-week Patrol Craft Officer-Riverine (PCOR) that teaches patrol craft security actions and waterborne special operations.

 

[Isa Khan]

The authorities are going to install another floating liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in the deep sea near the Payra port in Patuakhali, to facilitate smooth supply of natural gas to the south-western region.
Accelerate Global Operations, LLC, a company based in the United States, has been entrusted with the project, including installation of the pipeline.

In a virtual meeting on Wednesday, the cabinet committee on economic affairs gave nod to the draft agreement between Petrobangla and the US company regarding the terminal. Finance minister AHM Mustafa Kamal presided over the meeting, according to sources.

The finance minister or an additional secretary of cabinet division usually briefs the media about the decisions taken in the cabinet committees on economic affairs and government purchase. However, the briefing does not take place if the agenda include some crucial issues.

There was no press briefing on Wednesday. Contacted, cabinet division additional secretary said the meeting took place as per schedule, but there will be no briefing. He declined to explain the issue further.
According to sources, the meeting approved three proposals in principle, including that of LNG terminal installation. The other proposals include adopting a public-private partnership (PPP) framework for sewage management in Purbachal City and release and promotion of the film – Mujib: The Making of a Nation – through the direct procurement method.

Sources said the government does not want to disclose the decision to entrust an entity with the promotional campaign of the film without any tender. It requires the cabinet committee’s approval to spend a big sum of money from the state treasury.

Meanwhile, the cabinet committee on government purchase okayed a total of 17 proposals involving Tk 56.17 billion, including a proposal to import 50,000 tonnes of wheat to ensure food safety.
A Singapore-based company – Agrocorp International – has been assigned for sourcing wheat. A tonne of wheat will cost USD 304.83 to be imported, while each kilogram (kg) Tk 33.38.

US company to install LNG terminal at Payra

The project will facilitate smooth supply of natural gas to the south-western region.

en.prothomalo.com

Investors from the United States (US) have urged the government for tax exemptions in various sectors including the agriculture, service, and energy sectors in Bangladesh, Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal said today.

The minister said, a delegation of the US Bangladesh Business Council visiting Dhaka made the call during a courtesy meeting with him at the Secretariat on Thursday (30 August).

"Tax exemption are already being given in various sectors, allowing foreign investors to carry out business profitably in Bangladesh," the finance minister told reporters following the meeting.

"However, Bangladesh government will consider if American investors need additional benefits," he said while urging the investors to first review the existing facilities.

In the meeting, National Board of Revenue (NBR) member Masud Sadiq gave a presentation on what kind of tax exemptions are prevailing in which sectors.

Economic Relations Division Secretary Sharifa Khan said the US delegation wants to invest in Bangladesh's agricultural sector, especially in soybean production and export.

Besides, US financial services giant Visa has asked for incentives in some cases. The company is particularly interested in digital payments, merchant payments, she added.

US investors seek tax exemption in service, agri, energy sectors: Kamal

“Tax exemption are already being given in various sectors, allowing foreign investors to carry out business profitably in Bangladesh,” said the finance minister.

www.tbsnews.net

 

[Isa Khan]

Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen on Tuesday said the United States does not want dominance by any particular country in the Indo-Pacific region.

"Both countries share a vision to ensure the Indo-Pacific region is free, open, peaceful, and secure," said the minister while talking to reporters after his meeting with the visiting Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Regional Security in the US Bureau of Political-Military Affairs Mira Resnick at the Foreign Service Academy.

"The US has taken note of our Indo-Pacific outlook and there are many similarities. For free navigation in the Indo-Pacific region, the economic potential should be fully utilised," he added.

Masud also reiterated to the US side that Bangladesh's commitment to the people is to hold a free and fair election. "We are bound to hold a free and fair election, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina herself said so, even to the foreigners," said Masud.

A foreign ministry official who took part in the meeting told The Business Standard that the US delegation also asked about the law enforcement preparation regarding national polls if any untoward situation arises.

"They wanted to know the free and fair elections procedure and how it would be held, pre-polls situation if any massive protest takes place," he added.

The secretary said the Election Commission is making preparations, but it cannot be said which political party is thinking about the upcoming election.

Meanwhile, the foreign secretary said Bangladesh will raise the Teesta water-sharing issue on 8 September during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's bilateral meeting with her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

"We have many bilateral issues. Important ones will be discussed, including the Teesta water-sharing issue," he said.

He said they discussed all security-related issues including energy security and cyber security and said the multifaceted relations between the two countries demand frequent engagement.

Talking about the human rights issues, Masud bin Momen said Bangladesh takes all allegations seriously and follows due process.

"We take every human rights violation case seriously. RAB, police everyone has their own standard operating procedure, there is accountability if anyone shoots a bullet," he said.

"A written submission has been made to withdraw the sanctions on the RAB. The process is ongoing, and the sanctions can only be withdrawn through the established process. We must follow the United States' official systems," said the secretary.

"Regarding the Rohingya repatriation, they may have some observations on the current security situation in Rakhine State and the sustainable livelihood opportunities there," he added.

The foreign secretary also said that the Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov will hold a bilateral meeting with his Bangladeshi counterpart and a courtesy meeting with the prime minister during his visit to Dhaka.

"Bangladesh will discuss the volatile situation in the world today, which has been exacerbated by the Russia-Ukraine war. We will discuss food and fertiliser security, sanctions and counter-sanctions, and the purchase of essential goods. We hope that these issues can be resolved as soon as possible," he said.

Earlier, Bangladesh and the United States held the ninth annual bilateral security dialogue in Dhaka as part of a "comprehensive security relationship" between the two governments.

Khandker Masudul Alam, director general (North America) led the Bangladesh delegation while the US Side was led by Mira Resnick.

The security dialogue covered a wide range of issues related to the partnership between the two countries including strategic priorities and regional security issues, defence cooperation, civilian security cooperation, UN peacekeeping, counter-terrorism, and countering violent extremism.

US against dominance of any particular country in Indo-Pacific: Foreign secretary

Bangladesh will raise the Teesta water sharing issue on (Friday) 8 September during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's bilateral meeting with her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi in New Delhi

www.tbsnews.net

The 9th Bangladesh-US Security Dialogue concluded successfully in Dhaka today. The dialogue covered various traditional and non-traditional security issues of mutual interest including Indo-Pacific Outlook of Bangladesh and the Indo-Pacific Strategy of the USA, upcoming national elections, security assistance, defense trade and cooperation, countering terrorism and violent extremism, transnational crimes and broader regional security issues.

The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in both civil and military security domain. They also discussed non-traditional security issues including climate change, energy security and transnational crimes. Bangladesh reiterated its stated position of “zero-tolerance” against any form of terrorism and emphasized on continued cooperation to combat terrorism and violent extremism.

The meeting noted security cooperation as a key component in bilateral relations. The US side reiterated its support to the armed forces and law enforcement agencies of Bangladesh in enhancing their capacity through various forms of trainings, sharing of information and joint exercises. The US side responded affirmatively to Bangladesh’s call for working together in the maritime security matters.

Bangladesh reiterated that repatriation of Rohingyas is the ultimate solution to the protracted Rohingya crisis and sought greater international support to resolve the issue. US side lauded Bangladesh for hosting more than a million Rohingyas and assured to remain beside Bangladesh in extending humanitarian assistance.

Khandker Masudul Alam, Director General, North America Wing, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Mira Resnick, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Regional Security in the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs of the US State Department led their respective delegation. Representatives of key Government Ministries and agencies of Bangladesh as well as the US Government and the US Embassy participated in the dialogue.
Later on Ms. Resnic made a courtesy call on Foreign Secretary Ambassador Masud Bin Momen.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh

The 9th Bangladesh-US Security Dialogue concluded successfully in Dhaka today. The dialogue covered various traditional and non-traditional security issues of mutual interest including Indo-Pacific...

www.facebook.com

 

[Isa Khan]

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has applied to the United States Department of Transportation for a foreign air carrier permit as it aims to resume Dhaka-New York direct flights.

Sources at Biaman said the national flag carrier hopes to fly five weekly Dhaka-New York-Dhaka flights from next summer using the Boeing 787-9 via Izmir, Turkey.

Confirming the matter, Biman MD and CEO Shafiul Azim told TBS, "We have completed our part by applying. We started the process in January this year."

The officials at the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) and Biman Bangladesh Airlines said the Dhaka Airport must be upgraded to category-1 from the present category-2 to resume the Dhaka-New York direct flight.

The Federal Aviation Administration downgraded Bangladesh to category-2 for not operating flights for four successive years. The Dhaka-New York flights for Biman have remained suspended since July 2006.

The number of people who travel between Dhaka and the JFK Airport is significant as according to booking data, more than 152,000 travelled the route in 2019.

Biman applies to operate Dhaka-NY direct flight

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has applied to the United States Department of Transportation for a foreign air carrier permit as it aims to resume Dhaka-New York direct flights. Sources at Biaman said the national flag carrier hopes to fly five weekly Dhaka-New York-Dhaka flights from next summer...

www.tbsnews.net

 

[Isa Khan]

Eskayef Pharmaceuticals, one of the top leading pharmaceuticals in Bangladesh, has had its third manufacturing unit approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Earlier, two factories of the pharmaceutical company received approval from the US FDA, the most prestigious health regulatory authority in the world.

Located in the Faraaz Ayaaz Hossain building in Tongi, Gazipur, the newly approved facility specialises in sterile manufacturing. The company's previously approved factories are -- Sterile Unit-1 and Oral Solid Unit.
In an unparalleled feat in Bangladesh, Eskayef Pharmaceuticals now boasts three FDA-approved manufacturing facilities. Besides, it is the lone drug manufacturer here with an FDA-approved production site for injectable drugs.

The company has already begun exporting complex injectable drugs to the US.

Simeen Rahman, managing director (MD) of Eskayef Pharmaceuticals and chief executive officer (CEO) of Transcom Group, expressed immense pride in the landmark achievement.

“It is a proud occasion for Eskayef. Now, we have three manufacturing plants with the FDA approval. The most significant issue here is that two of our injectable drug manufacturing units are now approved by the FDA,” she said, adding her company has already started exporting injectable drugs to the US market.

Regarding the drug quality of Eskayef, Simeen Rahman said the strong commitment to quality remains at the forefront of their mission to serve the patients. “This recognition (FDA approval) has solidified our footing further on the global stage.”

Apart from the US FDA, Eskayef Pharmaceuticals received approval from other key drug regulatory agencies, including the MHRA of the United Kingdom, the GMP of the European Union, Anvisa of Brazil, the TGA of Australia, and the SAHPRA of South Africa.

Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Limited operates under the umbrella of Transcom Group. Its founder late Latifur Rahman set a global standard as an ethical and principled businessman.

The company has been manufacturing drugs for 34 years and is now exporting its products to different countries across six continents.

Third Eskayef plant gets landmark US FDA approval

In an unparalleled feat in Bangladesh, Eskayef Pharmaceuticals now boasts three FDA-approved manufacturing facilities

en.prothomalo.com