emphasis on open communication
The United States imposed sanctions against RAB and seven of its officials in 2021 for alleged serious human rights abuses. After this the relations between the two countries became tense. US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Donald Lu, Special Adviser to US President Joe Biden in January, Rear Admiral Eileen Laubacher and US State Department Counselor Derek Chollet in Dhaka last February eased tensions between the two countries. The visit of the three diplomats sent a message to the US that it attaches great importance to relations with Dhaka.
Donald Lu had even said during his visit to Dhaka last January during talks at various levels that there should be an open dialogue on the challenges of protecting democracy, human rights and freedom of expression. He said, Bangladesh’s democracy is not flawless like American democracy. When issues arise, it is better to resolve issues through open dialogue rather than slamming counter statements.
Derek Cholet also stressed on open discussion on various issues between the two countries. “Our partnership in politics, security and economy is growing and we look forward to our bilateral relationship for the next 50 years,” said Derek Chollet, visiting Dhaka.
However, the death of a woman in Naugaon in RAB custody, the comments of a US State Department spokesperson on German-based media Deutsche Welle’s documentary on RAB, and the latest debate on the Digital Security Act only two weeks before the meeting of the two foreign ministers, have come to the notice of the government. Has created some uneasiness.