Bangladesh
US-Bangladesh USA shows interest in helping modernize Bangladesh's armed forces
Dhaka, April 7: The United States has expressed interest in helping to modernize Bangladesh's armed forces and increase its institutional capacity. In this regard, constructive discussions have been held between the two sides on the two agreements GSOMIA (General Security of Military Information Agreement) and ACSA (Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement).
The issue was discussed at the eighth meeting of the day-long Bangladesh-US Security Dialogue in Washington on Wednesday (April 7). The meeting discussed four sessions on Bangladesh-US security cooperation, terrorism and civilian security cooperation, regional issues and peacekeeping.
The meeting was chaired by Masood bin Momen on behalf of Bangladesh and on behalf of the United States by Bonnie Denise Jenkins, Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security.
Earlier, there were seven security talks between the two countries, but this is the first time the talks have been held at the Foreign Secretary level in the interest of the United States.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Bangladesh-US Security Cooperation session discussed military training, Sunil security, proposed defense agreement, arms procurement and capacity building. On the other hand, Rohingya and Indo-Pacific were discussed in the regional cooperation sessions. The United States commends the success and leadership of Bangladesh's peacekeepers in the peacekeeping session.
Appreciating Bangladesh's role in the Rohingya issue, the United States pledged its continued support. On the other hand, Bangladesh expressed satisfaction over the recognition of torture of Rohingya as genocide.
Meanwhile, the US delegation expressed the view that Bangladesh is a responsible country and is participating in resolving global crises and problems. Both sides agreed to work together to fight terrorism and transnational crime. The United States has pledged to continue cooperating to build the capacity of Bangladesh's law enforcement and judiciary.
Bangladesh expressed grave concern over the US sanctions on RAB and requested that the decision be reconsidered. In the detailed discussion, the Bangladesh delegation explained the activities of RAB in suppressing terrorism, extremism and international crimes. Both sides agreed to continue discussions on this issue.
