Chattogram: United States Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen has reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to expanding commercial and economic cooperation during his first official visit to Chattogram, which ended today. The two-day visit was aimed at strengthening bilateral ties through engagements with business leaders, civil society representatives, and academic institutions.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the visit included a range of activities designed to boost the bilateral relationship between the United States and Bangladesh. During his tour of Chattogram Port, Ambassador Christensen marked the arrival of nearly 60,000 metric tons of high-quality US wheat, underscoring the growing trade between American farmers and Bangladeshi agricultural importers.
The ambassador also engaged with US agricultural commodity importers to promote American agricultural products and to discuss trade and shipping challenges. This engagement highlighted the importance of US agricultural exports to Bangladesh’s economy.
Ambassador Christensen visited BSRM Steel and Parhartali Textile Mills, both of which have been long-time users of US inputs. His visit emphasized the role of American innovation in supporting the industrial growth of Bangladesh.
At Premier University, the ambassador visited the newly-opened American Corner and met with Chattogram Mayor Shahadat Hossain and Vice-Chancellor S M Nasrul Quadir. Additionally, he interacted with alumni of U.S. government exchange programs, fostering educational and cultural ties.
The ambassador also paid tribute at the Chattogram War Cemetery, honoring American Pilot Officer William B. Rice, who lost his life during World War II. This gesture symbolized the historical ties and shared sacrifices between the two nations.
Ambassador Christensen’s visit further strengthened the US-Bangladesh partnership by deepening cooperation on economic growth, commercial opportunities, and security with the people of Chattogram, the spokesperson added.