Bangladesh NSA Meets US Official; Discusses Elections, Visa Issues And Regional Security

Last Updated:January 10, 2026, 15:15 IST

During the meeting, they discussed a wide range of topics involving upcoming elections in Bangladesh, economic and trade relations, the Rohingya issue and other regional matters.

Image credit: X

As Bangladesh is heading towards its 13^th Parliamentary elections, National Security Advisor Khalilur Rahman met with Allison Hooker, Under-Secretary of State for Political Affairs, and Paul Kapur, Assistant Secretary of State at the State Department in Washington on Saturday, an official statement said.

During the meeting, they discussed a wide range of topics involving upcoming elections in Bangladesh, economic and trade relations, the Rohingya issue and other regional matters.

“Rahman briefed Hooker about the preparations and arrangements for the upcoming general elections and expressed appreciation for the support of the US to the interim government during its tenure, including for the elections", the statement highlighted.

In response, Hooker affirmed the US’s support for the democratic transition in Bangladesh, underlining that it looks forwards to a free and fair elections in the country.

Increased trade prospects between US, Bangladesh

During the meeting, as per the statement, Rahman also spoke about the prospects of increased trade between the two countries following substantially enhanced Bangladeshi import of American farm products, the statement mentioned.

Rahman urged Hooker to consider exempting the B1 short-term business visa for Bangladeshi businessmen. She assured that the Trump administration would positively consider the matter.

The Bangladesh NSA also expressed the country’s interest in being a part of the international stablilization force that would be deployed in Gaza amid the ongoing middle-east tensions.

“Under Secretary Hooker said that the US is willing to work together with Bangladesh on this important matter", said the official statement.

Surge in violence in Bangladesh

The meeting comes at a time when Bangladesh is currently under scrutiny amid a surge in violence against minorities in the country ahead of the first Parliamentary elections after the ousting of former Prime Minister and Awami League Chief Sheikh Hasina.

Earlier on Thursday, another Hindu youth was killed on Thursday in the Bhangadohor village of the Sunamganj district – another instance of targeted violence the country has been witnessing.

According to data released by the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council, at least 51 such incidents of violence were reported in December.

News world Bangladesh NSA Meets US Official; Discusses Elections, Visa Issues And Regional Security

Read More