UNB, Dhaka

US President Donald Trump has set forward a clear vision to take relations with Bangladesh to the next level, said Brent Christensen, the American ambassador to Bangladesh.

“After 100 days, I am even more optimistic about the future of US-Bangladesh relations. I can’t wait to see what we all accomplish next,” he said in a video message released on Wednesday, marking 100 days since his arrival as the US ambassador to Bangladesh.

Bangladesh and the US signed a ‘historic trade agreement’ that will balance their trade deficit and make both the countries more prosperous.

“I have tirelessly advocated for US businesses across Bangladesh to build those trade ties.”

The US envoy said they are working together to combat the illegal migration and securing a ‘closer security partnership’ for a free and open Indo-Pacific.

“We are combating diseases like tuberculosis and measles through a new health partnership with Bangladesh.”

Christensen said they remain the largest donor supporting Bangladesh’s hosting of the Rohingya people and they will continue to push for a political solution.

“I came at an important time, just before Bangladesh’s historic February election,” he said, adding that the US was the first country to recognise the results of the election, and congratulate the new government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

On January 15, Christensen presented his credentials to President Mohammed Shahabuddin at Bangabhaban.

In over 50 years of partnership, the US ambassador said they have worked together to promote regional stability, economic growth benefiting both the two countries and the sovereignty of their great nations.

For over two decades, Christensen has had the privilege of working closely on US policy toward Bangladesh and the broader region.