Donald Lu, US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, embarked on a trip to India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh this month to enhance bilateral cooperation with each country and reiterate US endorsement of an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, and prosperous. A spokesperson at the US Department of State had said before his departure that he would engage in discussions with government officials, civil society leaders, and other individuals from Bangladesh to explore ways to enhance cooperation between the US and Bangladesh, including the climate crisis and strengthening economic relations.

The visit holds great importance due to the considerable shifts in the pre-election situation in Bangladesh. "The recent achievements in maintaining political stability, positive economic growth, and other socio-economic progress have attracted the global powers and they all seem very interested in partnering with Bangladesh to be a part of it," said Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen.

US President Joe Biden has reiterated his commitment to the ongoing collaboration between the US and Bangladesh, emphasizing their shared goals in regional and global security, economic development, climate change and energy, global health, and humanitarian assistance for Rohingya refugees.

Strategic location

The strategic location of Bangladesh makes it an important partner for the United States, given the increasing geopolitical competition and the shift in strategic focus from the Middle East to the Asia-Pacific region, particularly South Asia. Due to its geographical position in the northernmost point of the Bay of Bengal, it played an integral part in the shifting geopolitical dynamics between China and India. This significance could be heightened by the optimum exploitation of Bangladesh's energy reserves and the establishment of regional energy and trade corridors connecting China and India. 

To expand its influence in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific regions, the United States considers Bangladesh a vital ally. However, Bangladesh must exercise caution when considering the adoption of the Indo-Pacific Strategy advocated by the US and its regional allies. This move could potentially strain Bangladesh's friendship with China. That's why Bangladesh must approach this matter with delicate diplomacy and prioritize the balance of power to ensure long-term growth and prosperity.

UK minister's visit

Not only the US but also other developed nations like the UK have taken a greater interest in Bangladesh recently. Anne-Marie Trevelyan’s second visit to Bangladesh as the Indo-Pacific minister reasserted the United Kingdom’s dedication to enhancing bilateral cooperation when she announced a fresh allocation of £12 million ($15 million) as humanitarian aid for Rohingya refugees and the communities in Cox's Bazar. 

New US ambassador

The previous US ambassador to Bangladesh, Peter Haas, had attracted controversy with his somewhat uncalled-for comments on the country's internal matters and the threat of sanctions before the national election that had considerably soured ties. His withdrawal from Bangladesh has been a very strategic move by the Biden administration. Biden announced the nomination of David Meale as the new US ambassador, emphasizing Meale's impressive career in foreign service. Meale currently serves as deputy chief of mission in Beijing and has previously held the position of deputy chief of mission in Dhaka. With a strong background in trade policy, Meale brings a vast amount of regional knowledge and diplomatic experience to the role.

Bangladesh has a long record of involvement in Indo-Pacific connectivity, and it has made it clear that it will remain committed to fostering future connectivity in the region. Working for an open, resilient, and interconnected Indo-Pacific is crucial for Bangladesh's independence, sovereignty, and prosperity. To keep US dominance in the Indo-Pacific region, Bangladesh could play a vital role in the regional dynamics of South Asia. The establishment of a balanced political understanding and healthy business relationship will be beneficial for both countries in the future.  

(The author is a Lecturer of the Department of Public Administration, University of Dhaka. Views are personal. He can be contacted at marufhasanrumi@du.ac.bd)