US Will Work with Whomever the People Elect: Ambassador Christensen
According to the Reuters report, the main contest in the upcoming election is between the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, with some opinion polls indicating a slight lead for the BNP.
Ambassador Christensen expressed concern over China’s growing influence in South Asia. He noted that the US and its allies may offer alternative defense equipment to Bangladesh’s next government as an option to Chinese military hardware, though he did not provide further details.
He added that Washington hopes to see stable and constructive relations between Bangladesh and India, considering their importance for regional stability.
On trade and investment, the ambassador said several US companies are exploring opportunities in Bangladesh. However, he emphasized that the next government must send a clear signal supporting an investment-friendly environment. High tax rates and complexities in repatriating profits were cited as key obstacles.
Regarding the Rohingya crisis, Christensen stated that the United States remains the largest humanitarian donor. He called for greater international burden-sharing and mentioned a recent global funding agreement with the United Nations aimed at strengthening aid efforts in countries including Bangladesh.
