Bangladesh-US relations matter more than ever: Paul Kapur

US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Paul Kapur has highlighted the growing relations between Bangladesh and the United States, saying Dhaka-Washington ties matter more than ever.

"Today, US-Bangladesh relationship matters more than ever," he said while speaking about the relationship between the two countries at a recent programme hosted by the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington.

Kapur said cooperation between the two countries in areas including security, trade and governance, as well as their shared values, makes the two countries more prosperous and secure. 

In March, he paid a two-day visit to Bangladesh, discussing key US priorities, expanding market access for American businesses, strengthening cooperation on illegal immigration and deepening collaboration on regional security and counterterrorism.

He discussed expanding bilateral trade and investment, enhancing security cooperation and advancing shared interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

During his recent meeting with Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright acknowledged the energy challenges Bangladesh is currently facing and expressed his country's commitment to support Bangladesh during these difficult times to help ensure its energy security.

He said the US will consider Bangladesh's requests and assured Dhaka that he and his team will work closely with the relevant departments of the US government to this end.

Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman met with the US Energy Secretary at the Department of Energy in Washington, DC, on 31 March.

During the meeting, Khalilur explained the energy challenges Bangladesh is going through due to supply chain disruptions.

He requested the US secretary for help and support to ensure Bangladesh's energy security.