US Envoy flags concerns over china's growing role in South Asia
The United States ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent T Christensen, has voiced concern over what he described as “broader Chinese influence” in South Asia, saying Washington remains cautious about Beijing’s expanding footprint in the region.
Speaking at his first press conference in Dhaka on Wednesday, Christensen said the US wanted to work closely with Bangladesh in a way that benefits people in both countries, while clearly outlining potential risks tied to engagement with China in sensitive sectors.
Referring to commitments made during his US Senate confirmation hearing, the ambassador said he would continue frank discussions with Bangladesh’s authorities—whether the interim administration or a future elected government—on strategic choices that could have long-term implications.
Christensen highlighted deepening defence ties between the two countries, noting strong military-to-military cooperation across Bangladesh’s navy, army and air force. He said the US is supporting Bangladesh’s defence modernisation through training, joint exercises, maritime security cooperation and emergency response readiness.
Addressing questions on new US visa bond requirements and the temporary pause in some immigrant visa processing, the envoy said these were global policies aimed at reducing visa overstays and illegal migration, not measures targeting Bangladesh specifically. He clarified that the bond applies only to tourist and business visas, not student visas, and urged applicants to avoid scams.
On Bangladesh’s upcoming national election, Christensen described it as the most consequential poll in nearly two decades. He said Washington does not take sides in Bangladesh’s politics and respects the country’s sovereignty, stressing that the choice of government rests solely with Bangladeshi voters.
Christensen arrived in Dhaka on January 12 and was confirmed as US ambassador to Bangladesh by the Senate last month.
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