US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen said Washington will work with whichever leader the people of Bangladesh elect in the upcoming national election. In an interview with Reuters, he also expressed concern about China’s growing influence in South Asia and indicated that the US plans to offer defense equipment alternatives to the next Bangladeshi government. The 13th national election is scheduled for February 12, with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami as the main contenders.

The report noted that China has recently signed a defense agreement with Bangladesh, including plans to build a drone factory near the Indian border and discussions on purchasing JF-17 Thunder fighter jets jointly produced with Pakistan. China’s foreign ministry stated that the partnership is not directed against any third party and warned against external interference. Christensen added that the Trump administration seeks positive Bangladesh-India relations, which have been strained since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s ouster in 2024.

He emphasized trade diplomacy as a US priority and urged Bangladesh’s next government to ensure an investment-friendly environment. The ambassador also reaffirmed continued US humanitarian support for Rohingya refugees, calling for greater international participation amid funding shortages.