Chief Whip Md Nurul Islam on Tuesday said the United States has consistently stood beside Bangladesh in its democratic journey and expressed hope for enhanced cooperation in trade and technology in the coming years.
“The United States has always supported our democratic journey,” he said during a courtesy meeting with a visiting US delegation at his office in Parliament.
The Chief Whip said the US remains one of the largest export destinations for Bangladesh’s ready-made garment sector.
“As the government moves forward with its target of creating digital IT-based jobs, I hope the technologically advanced United States will extend its cooperation in this sector,” he said.
Referring to the government’s economic initiatives, Nurul Islam said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has been making relentless efforts to stabilise the country’s economy and improve the lives of marginalised people.
He said several welfare initiatives including family cards, farmer cards and agricultural loan waivers aimed at supporting low-income and rural communities.
“These programmes require a smooth democratic process for effective implementation. Without democracy, development in any sector is not possible,” he said.
The Chief Whip also described parliament as the “centre of democracy” and paid tribute to renowned architect Louis I Kahn, designer of the National Parliament Building.
“People will always remember Louis I Kahn with respect as the architect of this symbol of democracy,” he said.
The US delegation included Deputy Chief of Mission Megan Bouldin, Political Adviser Eric Gillan and Political Specialist Firoz Ahmed.
During the meeting, both sides discussed parliamentary democracy in Bangladesh, democratic development, the country’s renewed democratic journey, bilateral trade and economic relations, and issues related to the Jatiya Sangsad and Parliament complex.
Megan Bouldin described the Parliament Building as “a powerful symbol of the longstanding friendship” between Bangladesh and the United States.
“Students of American architecture often wish to visit this building as it is regarded as one of Louis Kahn’s finest works,” she said.
She reiterated that the United States believes in the independence, democracy and sovereignty of every nation.
The delegation also praised Bangladesh’s labour law reforms, saying the measures are being viewed positively in Washington.
They noted that bilateral agreements now include important provisions related to anti-corruption efforts, environmental protection and the prevention of wildlife trafficking.
The US side further mentioned ongoing support worth US$90 million over five years to help Bangladesh tackle infectious diseases in the health sector.
Both sides stressed the importance of strengthening democratic values and future cooperation, observing that Bangladesh is a friendly democratic country whose economic reforms are likely to encourage more American investment.
They expressed optimism that relations between Bangladesh and the United States would continue to deepen and become more sustainable in the years ahead.
Bd-pratidin English/Lutful Hoque
