Dhaka: State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam today addressed speculation surrounding US Special Envoy Sergio Gor’s recent remarks about Bangladesh purchasing additional Boeing aircraft, suggesting that Gor may have been referring to a previously concluded agreement. “His comments regarding the purchase of aircraft from Boeing may have been about the previous agreement,” Islam told journalists at the Foreign Ministry this morning.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Gor, who serves as the US Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs and Ambassador to India, claimed in a social media post that President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman had negotiated “another incredible Deal” with Bangladesh committing to spend “Billions of Dollars” on more Boeing aircraft. Gor further asserted that Bangladesh would “significantly” increase its initial order of Boeing aircraft.
These claims have led to questions about whether Bangladesh has entered into a new aircraft procurement agreement with the United States or Boeing. However, officials have pointed to an existing agreement as the possible subject of Gor’s comments.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines, the country’s state-owned carrier, signed an agreement with Boeing on April 30 in Dhaka, securing 14 aircraft as part of its fleet expansion efforts. The deal includes eight Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, two 787-9 Dreamliners, and four 737-8 MAX aircraft. The Civil Aviation and Tourism Ministry has since stated that no additional Boeing aircraft deal has been signed beyond this 14-aircraft agreement.
Previously, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir emphasized the importance of cooperation with the United States in terms of trade and investment, noting that Bangladesh would approach these international engagements with its national interest in mind. Kobir highlighted the government’s commitment to strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations to boost Bangladesh’s international visibility and influence.