Diplomatic sources have said that Bangladesh is considering requesting the US not to impose any new sanctions during the visit of US Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu to Dhaka.
The USA has imposed sanctions on RAB and its officials in 2021 for gross human rights violations. Despite various efforts at various levels, the sanctions are still in effect, which is inconvenient for Bangladesh.
Donald Lu is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on Saturday evening on a two-day visit after concluding his visit to India.
He will exchange views with Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen and Foreign Secretary Masood bin Momen on Sunday.
Donald Lu is likely to meet State Foreign Minister Mohammad Shahryar Alam at an event. In addition to meeting with government officials, he will hold meetings with members of civil society.
Foreign Ministry officials said various aspects of bilateral relations are likely to come up for discussion during Donald Lu’s visit. Bangladesh and America can keep their respective priorities and issues of concern.
Officials also said that Bangladesh is taking various steps including withdrawal of sanctions on RAB, resumption of GSP facilities of Bangladeshi products in US market, increasing US investments in Special Economic Zones, ensuring labor and human rights. may present issues. For US assistance to ensure free, fair and neutral elections, to ensure the safety of diplomats in accordance with the Vienna Convention, and to resolve the Rohingya crisis.