Diplomatic Correspondent :
While discussions continue between Bangladesh and the United States regarding potential tariff reductions on Bangladeshi exports to the American market, both countries are concurrently advancing their defence partnership through a series of joint exercises and strategic security initiatives.
Although Dhaka has yet to receive a definitive response from Washington on the trade front, government sources indicate that negotiations remain ongoing.
In the meantime, bilateral defence cooperation is gathering momentum, underscoring the growing strategic alignment between the two nations.
According to a statement issued by the US Embassy in
Dhaka on Sunday, these collaborative efforts not only reinforce the partnership between Bangladesh and the United States but also contribute to broader regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.
“These efforts help to make the United States and Bangladesh stronger, and the region safer,” the statement noted.
Among the key initiatives is Tiger Lightning, now in its fourth year, which brings together personnel from the Bangladesh Army and the US Army Pacific in comprehensive training programmes focused on counterterrorism, peacekeeping, jungle warfare, medical evacuation, and countering improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Additionally, Tiger Shark 2025, part of the long-running Flash Bengal series that began in 2009, will deliver joint training for special operations forces. The programme includes patrol boat operations, small arms marksmanship, and the use of advanced US military equipment.
It aims to bolster the operational capabilities of Bangladesh’s elite Special Warfare Diving and Salvage unit and Para Commando Brigade, particularly in crisis response scenarios.
Another upcoming initiative, Pacific Angel, will highlight the role of the C-130 aircraft fleet in humanitarian assistance, focusing on disaster response, airdrops, and air mobility.
Personnel will also receive training in search and rescue (SAR) and aeromedical evacuation, enhancing Bangladesh’s preparedness for natural disasters and other emergencies.
In a noteworthy development in defence technology cooperation, the United States is working with Bangladesh to introduce the RQ-21 Blackjack unmanned aerial system (UAS) programme.
Operated by dedicated units from the Bangladesh Army and Navy, the system will enhance Bangladesh’s capacity for maritime surveillance, border security, and contributions to international peacekeeping missions.
Despite the lack of a formal announcement regarding the progress of trade negotiations, the intensification of military cooperation reflects a strengthening and evolving bilateral relationship.
On the trade front, Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain, speaking to journalists in Dhaka on 16 July, acknowledged the possibility of a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) being signed between the two countries, as referenced earlier by the Commerce Adviser.
“Technically, there can be an NDA, and we will keep certain information confidential. The concerned ministry is handling the details. Let us wait to see the outcome of the negotiations,” he said in response to a query on the tariff issue.
Sources suggest that an NDA may soon be concluded, indicating deeper strategic coordination between the two governments.
The United States had extended early support to the Interim Government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus.
However, dynamics shifted following the return of the Trump administration, which reintroduced reciprocal tariffs globally-creating widespread reactions in April.
Nonetheless, President Trump subsequently announced a 90-day suspension of the new tariffs, effective from 1 August. In response, Professor Yunus expressed appreciation for the decision, stating,
“Thank you, Mr President, for responding positively to our request for a 90-day pause on tariffs. We will continue to work with your administration in support of your trade agenda.”
As these multifaceted engagements unfold, regional powers-including India and China-are closely monitoring Bangladesh’s growing role in regional security and its evolving strategic partnership with the United States.
