Reflecting on the wisdom of Abraham Lincoln, who said, "The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time," I find myself in my third year as the US Ambassador to Bangladesh, continually inspired by the nation's potential, the dynamism and resilience of its people, and the vibrancy of its civil society.
Bangladesh has indeed journeyed far from its inception. Looking ahead, I see a landscape filled with opportunities and considerable challenges. In the lead-up to the January 7, 2024 parliamentary election, the United States stood for a free and fair electoral process that would mirror the democratic will of the Bangladeshi people.
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Regrettably, this vision was not realized. Yet, our commitment to democracy remains unwavering, both in Bangladesh and globally. We are convinced that democracy paves the way for lasting economic growth that benefits every citizen. Our support for civil society champions and human rights advocates will persist. We will maintain our stance against the suppression and intimidation of journalists. Our advocacy for freedom of speech and assembly will not waver, and we will continue to promote constructive political discourse to foster a more transparent, peaceful, and democratic society.
Simultaneously, we will seek common ground with Bangladesh on shared interests. The United States is prepared to progress in tandem with Bangladesh on these fronts. I have initiated discussions with cabinet members of the new government to identify collaborative opportunities in areas of mutual significance.
The issues of social and environmental resilience are paramount. My team and I are committed to ongoing collaboration with Bangladesh on climate change and the shift towards renewable energy, recognizing that climate change is a universal challenge. I am eager to build upon our successful partnership that delivered over a hundred million Covid vaccines to the Bangladeshi populace.
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The security alliance between our nations and within the region is also vital. Our military and law enforcement agencies are exploring new avenues to enhance cooperation in addressing security threats and mitigating the effects of natural disasters. We are also keen to contribute to the modernization efforts of Bangladesh's military forces.
In the sphere of labor, the United States upholds the conviction that Bangladesh should harmonize its legal framework and practices with global labor norms. President Biden's Global Labor Strategy underscores the importance of labor rights worldwide and will steer our efforts to motivate Bangladesh to embrace regulations that empower workers to establish and join autonomous, democratic unions without intimidation or backlash.
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The U.S. is dedicated to fostering advancements in labor rights in Bangladesh, supported by strategic development aid. As Bangladesh's principal foreign investor and the top market for its exports, the U.S. aims to cultivate an economic partnership that is mutually advantageous.
Moreover, our commitment extends to humanitarian efforts, as we persist in collaborating with the Bangladeshi government to provide sustainable aid to the Rohingya, survivors of genocide, and advocate for their eventual safe and dignified repatriation to Myanmar when circumstances permit.
With each new day comes a fresh chance to shape the future. The United States stands in solidarity with the people of Bangladesh, offering unwavering support as they navigate their path forward.
