Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Calls for Stronger Bangladesh-U.S. Partnership

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and Leader of the Opposition Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has called for transforming Bangladesh's relationship with the United States into a comprehensive strategic partnership based on trade, security cooperation, and support for democratic institutions.

He made the remarks on Saturday while speaking as a special guest at an event jointly organized by the Parliamentary Caucus of America and the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka to commemorate the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence.

"I strongly urge that the current relationship between Bangladesh and the United States be elevated from a traditional friendship to a genuine partnership founded on trade, security cooperation, and mutual support for democratic institutions," Dr. Rahman said.

He also expressed gratitude to the United States for its longstanding humanitarian assistance to Rohingya refugees living in Cox's Bazar and Bhasan Char.

Paying tribute to those killed during the July uprising, Dr. Rahman said he honored the martyrs and reaffirmed the opposition's commitment to implementing the July National Charter as part of Bangladesh's ongoing reform process.

On international affairs, he welcomed recent U.S. diplomatic efforts aimed at easing tensions in the Middle East, including what he described as a ceasefire agreement involving Iran.

"I welcome the recent diplomatic initiatives by the United States to reduce tensions in the Middle East, including the ceasefire involving Iran, and encourage continued efforts toward achieving lasting peace in the region," he said.

Dr. Rahman also praised the Parliamentary Caucus of America for its work but stressed that parliamentary diplomacy should prioritize the interests of marginalized communities, including refugee families, flood-affected populations, and disadvantaged workers.

On behalf of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and the parliamentary opposition, he congratulated the U.S. government and people on the country's 250th Independence anniversary, expressing hope for stronger bilateral ties built on shared democratic values and mutual respect.

The event, held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad, was chaired by Dr. Mohammad Osman Faruk, MP, while Deputy Speaker Barrister Qaiser Kamal attended as the chief guest.

The Parliamentary Caucus of America includes two representatives from Jamaat-e-Islami on its executive committee: Barrister Mir Ahmad Bin Kasem (Arman), MP, who serves as the opposition leader's foreign affairs adviser, and Mardia Momtaz, MP. The party said their participation reflects Jamaat's commitment to constructive parliamentary diplomacy and strengthening relations between the people and institutions of Bangladesh and the United States.