US-Bangladesh can partner in key areas: USAID mission director

There is an opportunity for stronger partnership between the United States and Bangladesh particularly in areas of energy, health, education and security, according to Reed Aeschliman, the mission director of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) in Bangladesh. 

Apart from strengthening the existing bilateral business ties, the two countries can work together to improve democratic institutions, provide humanitarian assistance, and protect the environment in Bangladesh, he said.  

Reed Aeschliman made the remarks at a programme on "The Transforming Bangladesh: USAID Partners in Progress" organised by American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) at a city hotel on Thursday.

"Bangladesh has progressed remarkably. Our 50-year relationship has been fruitful. We should work together in the coming days as well. Now, we need more partnerships particularly in energy, health, education, security, humanitarian assistance," Aeschliman stated. 

Replying to a question, he said corruption is a big problem in Bangladesh and that use of ICT can be an effective tool for addressing it as the paper-based system poses corruption risk.

"However, a constructive discussion should be done to ensure good governance and transparency in the country," he also said.

Aeschliman laid emphasis on regional energy cooperation, sustainable projects, and a hassle-free business climate for creating a congenial atmosphere for the entrepreneurs in Bangladesh.

At the event, AmCham President Syed Ershad Ahmed said Bangladesh has made a strong trajectory towards economic growth and prosperity over the past decade. The country keeps its position as a rising global force by emphasising infrastructure development, human capital investment, and economic diversification.

"Despite challenges, by diversifying trade partners and implementing prudent policies, we have mitigated disruptions and maintained our economic growth," he added.

He further said since Bangladesh's independence, the US government, through USAID, has been working with the people of Bangladesh to expand food security and economic opportunity, improve health and education, promote democratic institutions, provide humanitarian assistance, and protect the environment.

In Bangladesh, the USAID has been working to enhance trade and business-enabling conditions. In 2023, it invested $35 million in a new climate-smart agriculture project, Ershad told the event. 

He went on saying the US is the leading contributor of humanitarian assistance in response to the Rohingya crisis, having provided nearly $2.4 billion since the outbreak of violence in August 2017, a significant amount of which through the USAID.

"We believe USAID's contributions will significantly elevate our collaborative endeavours, prevail over challenges, and drive us toward more remarkable progress," Ershad also noted.

AmCham Bangladesh Vice-President Syed Mohammad Kamal moderated the function while Commercial Counselor at the US Embassy in Bangladesh John Fay, among others, were also present at the event.