Dhaka hosts US delegation for talks on economy, workers’ rights
Staff Reporter :
A high-level US delegation from the Biden administration arrived in Dhaka on Friday for a four-day official visit, aiming to strengthen cooperation in fostering a sustainable economy, stability, and quality employment opportunities in Bangladesh.
The US State Department announced in a press release that the delegation is led by Kelly M. Fay Rodriguez, Special Representative for International Labour Affairs, and Thea Lee, Deputy Undersecretary of the US Department of Labour.
During the visit, scheduled from 22-25 November, the delegation will engage with officials from the Interim Government, private sector garment manufacturers, and labour union representatives.
They will also meet with American companies operating in Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) sector and global labour experts to discuss strategies for supporting Bangladesh’s economy, democracy, and workforce.
The visit underscores the United States’ commitment to advancing economic development, internationally recognised labour standards, and sustainable growth. Discussions will focus on shared interests in development and prosperity while addressing challenges in key sectors such as the RMG industry.
This visit also highlights the US’s long-term commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s journey towards sustainable economic growth and improved
labour conditions, benefiting both nations.
The timing of the visit coincides with recent unrest in some garment factories, where workers have been protesting over issues such as wages and benefits.
This agitation, ongoing for over a month, has disrupted production, with many factories forced to shut down amid large-scale demonstrations by workers.
According to the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), the unrest in the RMG sector during September and October caused losses estimated at nearly $400 million.
However, intervention by the Interim Government has brought the situation under control, and normalcy has returned to the garment factory zones in Ashulia and Gazipur.
As the US delegation meets with RMG industry stakeholders, they are expected to gain insights into the unrest and related challenges.
The United States places significant emphasis on labour issues, particularly as Bangladesh exports most of its RMG products to destinations such as the US and Europe.
