Brent T. Christensen, the United States Ambassador to Bangladesh, attended the inaugural session of the 13th National Parliament today, underscoring Washington’s commitment to strengthening bilateral partnerships for prosperity and security. His presence at the parliamentary opening highlights both the enduring ties between the two nations and the U.S.’s support for Bangladesh’s democratic institutions and parliamentary processes.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka, Washington is prepared to work closely with Dhaka to advance shared priorities, including economic growth, political stability, and security. Ambassador Christensen emphasised that “the United States seeks to fortify its relationship with Bangladesh and is keen to support enhanced security measures across the diplomatic zone, including through the Special Program for Embassy Augmentation and Response (SPEAR).”
Security and Diplomatic Coordination
In light of the evolving global security landscape, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed confirmed that security measures around diplomatic areas have been significantly strengthened. He stated that, alongside regular police forces, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) personnel have been deployed and that law enforcement agencies have been instructed to take precautionary actions. The Home Minister conveyed these details during a courtesy meeting with Ambassador Christensen at the Ministry of Home Affairs office in the Secretariat.
The meeting covered a wide array of bilateral concerns, including law enforcement cooperation, illegal migration, counter-terrorism, diplomatic security enhancement under the SPEAR programme, and implementation of the Electronic Nationality Verification (ENV) system.
| Area | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| Diplomatic Security | SPEAR programme implementation and MoU signing for rapid deployment |
| Illegal Migration | ENV programme to facilitate Bangladesh’s inclusion in the U.S. Green Zone |
| Counter-Terrorism | Training for ~30,000 Bangladesh Police officers from Investigators to DIG level since 2010, with equipment support |
| Law Enforcement Coordination | Joint efforts to strengthen internal and border security |
At the start of the meeting, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed welcomed the ambassador, noting, “The United States has long been a close partner in counter-terrorism and security initiatives in Bangladesh.” Ambassador Christensen reciprocated, emphasising that swift implementation of the SPEAR programme is essential; otherwise, U.S. funding could be redirected elsewhere.
He also highlighted that ENV programme adoption would bolster Bangladesh’s efforts to curb illegal migration, granting the country recognition within the U.S. Green Zone for migration purposes. On counter-terrorism cooperation, he reaffirmed that U.S. support has been longstanding, though officer retirements and transfers have limited overall programme impact.
Responding, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed assured that necessary measures would be taken promptly, instructing relevant officials to convene a workshop to coordinate actions. The meeting included Joint Secretary Rebeka Khan of the Political-1 Division, U.S. Embassy Political and Economic Counsellor Eric Gellan, Political Officer Sun Sanders, Political Specialist Tanik Munir, and Political Officer Riley Palmerty.
Ambassador Christensen concluded by congratulating the Home Minister on his new portfolio and reiterating the United States’ dedication to deepening long-term bilateral cooperation in security, governance, and development.