The United States wants to see Bangladesh as a country (net security provider) that plays a positive role in suppressing various types of crimes and ensuring security for itself and other countries in the region. And for this, the United States is ready to provide the necessary assistance.
This was said by the political officer of the embassy, Maxwell Martin, in an exchange of views on ‘Indo-Pacific strategy and its impact on Bangladesh’ at the US Embassy yesterday. He said, we think all countries in the region should have the ability to protect themselves and help others. We want to see such a sustainable and positive security framework in South Asia. Achieving Forces Goal-2030 is a goal of Bangladesh Armed Forces. We are assisting in its implementation. This is because we want Bangladesh to become a ‘net security provider’ country in the region with responsibility.
Maxwell said, we have seen that Bangladesh has increased its capacity to make a positive contribution to the region. Bangladesh has increased its capabilities manifold to provide security for itself and the region. We are proud to support Bangladesh in this regard. United States is providing assistance in various fields including strengthening of internal security system of Bangladesh, supply of defense equipment, training.
Maxwell said, we know that Bangladesh maintains a balance between the countries of the region and other countries of the world. No problem with that. You may have noticed that the voice of the United States is very strong about the political situation in Bangladesh. It is a part of the overall relationship. We emphasize multidimensional relationships. This includes economic, security and political cooperation.
Washington recognizes Delhi’s leadership in South Asia and the Indian Ocean. When asked how Bangladesh and other countries of the region see this issue, he said, we see the relationship with Bangladesh from a bilateral perspective. We do not see this relationship through the eyes of other countries. I have heard in various places including the media that the United States sees Bangladesh through the lens of India. It’s not true. We can work together only if we look at the relationship in terms of mutual interest. This is what we are emphasizing to everyone, including the government and the media.
Maxwell said that the 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. The two largest ships of the Bangladesh Navy are given by the United States. One of these ships provided relief aid after a cyclone hit Myanmar in June last year. This is the kind of security cooperation we want with Bangladesh, where the people of the region will directly benefit.
The US official said that many people have a misconception about the Indo-Pacific strategy of the US. We want everyone to understand this clearly. And Quad is not an alliance. It is a group where like-minded countries discuss various issues among themselves. For this reason, I think Bangladesh should not be afraid of Quad. I think, Bangladesh is not afraid.
