The United States is expressing unease about China’s growing involvement in South Asia and is preparing to propose American and allied defense systems to Bangladesh’s upcoming government as substitutes for Chinese equipment, according to the US ambassador to Dhaka in a statement to Reuters.
Bangladesh is gearing up for a general election this week following a youth-driven movement that ousted the India-aligned Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. With Hasina seeking refuge in New Delhi, China has been able to enhance its influence in Bangladesh while India’s presence diminishes.
Recently, China inked a defense pact with Bangladesh to construct a drone manufacturing facility near the Indian border, causing concern among foreign diplomats. Additionally, Bangladesh is in discussions with Pakistan to purchase JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, a versatile combat aircraft jointly developed with China.
In an interview on Tuesday, US Ambassador Brent T. Christensen emphasized, “The United States is troubled by the expanding Chinese influence in South Asia and is dedicated to collaborating closely with the Bangladeshi government to clearly convey the risks associated with certain forms of engagement with China.” Christensen underscored that the US is prepared to provide a variety of choices, including US and allied defense systems, to help Bangladesh fulfill its military requirements and offer alternatives to Chinese systems.
The Chinese foreign ministry did not respond immediately to a request for comment.
Christensen also stressed the Trump administration’s desire for a positive relationship between Bangladesh and India to uphold stability in the region.
The relationship between New Delhi and Dhaka has deteriorated since Hasina’s departure, negatively impacting visa services and cricket connections between the neighboring countries.
Christensen highlighted the importance of commercial diplomacy, indicating that numerous US companies are exploring potential investments in Bangladesh but would require the next government to demonstrate early and clear indications of being open for business.
He emphasized, “Commercial diplomacy is a key focus for us, and we are eager to collaborate with the new government to build on the advancements achieved with the interim government, particularly in strengthening commercial, economic, and security relations.”
While energy producer Chevron has a longstanding presence in Bangladesh, few other American companies are prominent in the densely populated nation of 175 million people due to challenges such as high taxes and repatriating profits. Major American brands like Starbucks and McDonald’s are absent in Bangladesh.
The ambassador assured that Washington is prepared to work with whichever government the Bangladeshi people elect. The election features two coalitions led by former allies, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami, with polls indicating an advantage for the BNP.
Regarding the Rohingya refugees sheltered in Bangladesh, the ambassador noted that the United States remains the largest contributor to humanitarian efforts.
He highlighted, “The US continues to be the primary contributor to the Rohingya refugee response and is actively involved in health programs in Bangladesh.” He mentioned a recent $2 billion global funding agreement with the United Nations to enhance the efficiency of humanitarian aid, including in Bangladesh, and urged other international donors to step up their support.
In recent years, the UN refugee agency has faced challenges in securing adequate funding to assist the Rohingya community, resulting in reductions in rations and the closure of some schools for the refugees.
