Bangladesh-US relations not channeled through India, China, Russia: US official

Maxwell Martin, the political officer of the US Embassy, ​​said that the United States does not see relations with Bangladesh from the perspective of other countries. He said, ‘I have heard in various places including the mass media that the United States sees Bangladesh through the lens of India. It’s not true. The relationship between the United States and Bangladesh is multidimensional. We can work together only if we see mutual interest. This is what we are insisting to everyone, including the government and the media.

This political officer of the embassy said this in a press conference organized on IPS at the United States Embassy in Dhaka on Thursday afternoon. The US Embassy organized this press conference on India Pacific Strategy (IPS) and its implications for Bangladesh.

Maxwell Martin said, ‘United States’ relationship with Bangladesh is based on the common history, values ​​and future prospects of the two countries. This relationship is not conducted through India, China, Russia or any third country. We see the relationship with Bangladesh from a bilateral perspective. We do not see this relationship through the lens of other countries.’

Maxwell Martin called Bangladesh as important for South Asia in terms of security. Explaining this, he said, ‘I am saying this from a positive point of view. All countries in the region are capable of ensuring their own security and can responsibly ensure the security of others. From the perspective of positive security framework in South Asia from the perspective of constructive and sustainable approach. Why are you saying this? Since independence, I have seen Bangladesh’s ability and contribution in the field of security in the region rapidly. Along with the ability to ensure its own security, Bangladesh has also progressed in helping others. We are proud to be a partner of Bangladesh. For example, Myanmar’s natural disaster relief is a great example.’

He said, ‘The United States has worked with the armed forces of Bangladesh in various areas to deal with disasters. In addition to disaster management, the United States has assisted Bangladesh’s various law enforcement agencies in dealing with internal security situations such as terrorism and militancy.