Recently, there has been a fresh change in the relations between Bangladesh and America. Under their negative attitude toward the general elections and visa cancellation of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, US-Bangladeshi relations have degraded. Will this strain affect the political ties and trade between the two countries? Let’s look at this closer.
Issues with American democracy
The United States has labeled the recent general elections in Bangladesh as “unjustifiable.” The US government worries over the claimed transgressions of human rights and democracy in Bangladesh. Consequently, several Bangladeshi politicians and leaders have been subject to visa limitations imposed by the United States. The US has quite explicitly advised Bangladesh to follow democratic norms.
The ruling came during a period when Bangladesh had recently seen major demonstrations and acts of violence. The violence claimed more than 400 lives, compromising Bangladesh’s reputation on the international front. Viewing these events as a threat to democracy, the US government demands severe actions to stop them.
Sheikh Hasina Response
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina denounced the attack. According to him, the US is seeking to destabilize the country through conspiracies against him. Sheikh Hasina claims that the US wants to impose an undemocratic government on Bangladesh.
Sheikh Hasina stated in her remarks that the US is plotting against her and that she wants a puppet government set up in Bangladesh. He also claims that US intervention in Bangladesh’s internal problems is compromising the nation’s sovereignty.
Economic and trade links
Still, US-Bangladesh commerce and strategic connection are crucial even within this political unrest. Bangladesh’s third-largest trading partner is the United States, which also has the largest ready-made clothing market. In addition, the United States has made significant foreign investments in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh has received significant US assistance for health and food security efforts. In addition, the US provided assistance to Bangladesh during the Rohingya crisis. During this period, the United States assisted Bangladesh in dealing with Rohingya migrants by providing both humanitarian and financial aid.
Today, the issue is how each nation manages this delicate posture and whether their relationship veers. Rebuilding their ties requires both nations to behave with moderation and compassion. Their communication has to get better if both nations wish to mend their divisions and go ahead together.
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